A/B Otic: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Precautions

Overview

Antipyrine and Benzocaine Otic Solution (A/B Otic) is a prescription ear drop used to relieve pain, pressure, and swelling from middle ear infections. It combines antipyrine, an anti-inflammatory, with benzocaine, a numbing agent, to provide fast-acting comfort.

It’s also used to soften hardened earwax before removal. This medication is applied directly into the ear canal and should be used exactly as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Contents

What is A/B Otic | Uses of A/B Otic | Dosage for A/B Otic | Side Effects of A/B Otic | Precautions for A/B Otic

What is A/B Otic

Antipyrine and Benzocaine Otic Solution (A/B Otic) is a prescription ear drop used to alleviate ear pain, inflammation, and congestion associated with middle ear infections (acute otitis media). It also aids in softening and removing excessive earwax (cerumen). This medication combines:

• Antipyrine: An analgesic that reduces inflammation and pain.

• Benzocaine: A local anesthetic that numbs the affected area.

  ---

Uses of A/B Otic

• A/B Otic (Antipyrine and Benzocaine Otic Solution) is used to relieve pain, pressure, and discomfort caused by middle ear infections (acute otitis media). It works by reducing inflammation and numbing the affected area. It also helps soften and loosen hardened earwax for easier removal.

  Common uses include:

  • Easing ear pain from infections

  • Reducing ear pressure

  • Softening earwax before removal

  • Supporting comfort during antibiotic treatment

How to Use

General Instructions

1. Warm the Solution: Hold the bottle in your hand for 1–2 minutes to warm it to body temperature.

2. Positioning: Lie down or tilt your head so the affected ear faces upward.

3. Administration:

   • Gently pull the earlobe up and back (for adults) or down and back (for children) to straighten the ear canal.

   • Instill the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal.

   • Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, including the ear.

4. Retention:

   • Remain in the same position for 5 minutes to allow the medication to coat the ear canal.

   • A cotton plug moistened with the solution may be gently inserted at the ear opening for 5–10 minutes to prevent leakage.

5. Repeat: If both ears are affected, repeat the process for the other ear.

For Cerumen Removal

• Pre-Treatment: Instill the solution into the affected ear canal three times daily for 2–3 days to soften earwax.

• Post-Treatment: After earwax removal, the solution may be used to dry the ear canal and alleviate any discomfort.

Dosage

• Adults and Children:

  • Otitis Media: Fill the affected ear canal with the solution every 1–2 hours as needed for pain relief.

  • Cerumen Removal: Fill the affected ear canal three times daily for 2–3 days prior to earwax removal.

Note: Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.

Precautions

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to antipyrine, benzocaine, or other medications.

• Ear Conditions: Do not use if you have a perforated eardrum or ear discharge unless directed by a healthcare professional.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

• Children: Use in children should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Side Effects

A/B Otic (Antipyrine and Benzocaine Otic Solution) is generally well tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary.

Common side effects:

• Mild stinging or burning in the ear

• Temporary redness or irritation

Less common but serious side effects:

• Rash or itching

• Swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)

• Dizziness

• Trouble breathing (sign of a serious allergic reaction)

Stop using and seek medical help if you notice:

• Worsening ear pain

• Drainage from the ear

• Signs of an allergic reaction

ere side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

• Do not freeze.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Discard the product six months after opening.

When Do I Seek Medical Attention ?

• Increased or worsening ear pain
• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the ear
• Drainage or bleeding from the ear
• Hearing loss or a plugged feeling that doesn’t go away
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing)
• No improvement after a few days of use
  

  ---

Sources

• Drugs.com –
  A/B Otic – Uses, Side Effects, and More

• MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine) –
  Antipyrine and Benzocaine Otic

• Mayo Clinic –
  Antipyrine and Benzocaine (Otic Route)

• Cleveland Clinic –
  Antipyrine/Benzocaine Ear Solution