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Numark Earwax Removal Drops

Numark Earwax Removal Drops

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  • ✔️ Softens and loosens stubborn earwax buildup effectively
  • ✔️ Urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen to break down wax
  • ✔️ Relieves blocked ears, muffled hearing, and ear fullness
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Prepares ears before professional irrigation or microsuction

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What Are Earwax Removal Drops and Do They Work?

 

Blocked ears are surprisingly common. In fact, earwax buildup — known medically as cerumen impaction — affects millions of people in the UK every year. It can cause muffled hearing, a sensation of fullness in the ear, and even mild discomfort. Earwax removal drops offer a simple, affordable way to tackle this at home without needing a GP appointment. Numark Earwax Removal Drops are available over the counter for just £3.69, making them one of the most accessible options around. If you're dealing with other ear, nose, or throat concerns alongside blocked ears, you can browse our full range in the Ear, Nose & Throat collection at Cured Pharmacy.

Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in the outer ear canal. It normally migrates out of the ear on its own, but sometimes it builds up — particularly in people who use cotton buds, wear hearing aids, or have naturally narrow ear canals. When that happens, a cerumenolytic (wax-softening) product like this one can help restore comfort and clarity.

 

How Do Numark Earwax Removal Drops Work?

 

The active ingredient in Numark Earwax Removal Drops is urea hydrogen peroxide 5%. This compound works through a straightforward chemical process once it contacts the earwax:

  • Urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen on contact with earwax.
  • The oxygen creates a gentle fizzing or bubbling action inside the ear canal.
  • This mechanical action breaks apart and softens the wax plug.
  • The loosened wax can then drain naturally or be rinsed away more easily.

It's a well-established mechanism. The NHS recognises cerumenolytic drops — including those containing hydrogen peroxide compounds — as a suitable first-line approach for earwax softening before irrigation or microsuction, if those procedures are needed at all.

 

Who Should Use Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over who are experiencing symptoms of earwax buildup. They're particularly useful if you notice any of the following:

  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in one or both ears.
  • Reduced or muffled hearing that isn't linked to illness.
  • Mild earache or itching caused by wax accumulation.
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ear) associated with wax blockage.

They are not suitable for everyone, though. People with a perforated eardrum, a current ear infection, or grommets in place should not use these drops without first speaking to a healthcare professional.

 

How Do Numark Earwax Removal Drops Compare to Olive Oil Drops?

 

Feature Numark Earwax Removal Drops Olive Oil Ear Drops
Active ingredient Urea hydrogen peroxide 5% Olive oil (natural)
Mechanism Oxygen release breaks down wax Lubricates and softens wax
Speed of action Typically 3–4 days May take up to 2 weeks
NHS recommended Yes (hydrogen peroxide compounds) Yes (first-line home remedy)

 

Is This Product Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Numark Earwax Removal Drops are intended for short-term use only — typically up to four days per treatment course. They are not designed for ongoing daily use as a preventative measure. If your ears continue to block up regularly, it's worth speaking to your GP about whether ear irrigation or microsuction might be more appropriate for you. Using earwax removal drops repeatedly without addressing the underlying cause isn't recommended.

Store the drops below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep them out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing other health concerns, our First Aid collection includes a range of products to support everyday health at home.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Numark Earwax Removal Drops specifications
Treatment category Ear care / Cerumenolytic
Active ingredient Urea hydrogen peroxide 5%
Mechanism of action Releases oxygen to soften and break down earwax
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Cerumenolytic agent
Preparation Ear drops (solution)
Route of administration Otic (into the ear canal)
Brand Numark

Specifications of Numark Earwax Removal Drops

 

What Are Numark Earwax Removal Drops and What Are They Used For?

 

Numark Earwax Removal Drops are an over-the-counter ear preparation used to soften, loosen, and help remove excess earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal. The active ingredient, urea hydrogen peroxide 5%, is a recognised cerumenolytic agent. These drops are used to relieve the symptoms associated with earwax buildup, including blocked or muffled hearing, a sensation of pressure or fullness in the ear, mild earache, and tinnitus related to wax impaction. They may also be used to prepare the ear canal before professional ear irrigation or microsuction.

Earwax is a normal and protective secretion, but when it accumulates excessively it can cause real discomfort. The NHS advises against using cotton buds to remove wax, as this often pushes it deeper into the canal. Earwax removal drops are a safer, clinician-endorsed alternative for home management.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

 

Before using these drops, read the following carefully. There are situations where this product must not be used:

  • Do not use if you have a perforated (burst) eardrum.
  • Do not use if you have an active ear infection (otitis externa or otitis media).
  • Do not use if you have grommets (tympanostomy tubes) in place.
  • Do not use in children under 12 years of age without medical advice.
  • Do not use if you have had recent ear surgery.
  • Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Regarding drug interactions, no significant interactions with other medicines have been identified for topical urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops. However, if you are using any other ear preparations, allow adequate time between applications and consult your pharmacist. If you're managing multiple health conditions, our Pain Relief collection may also be of interest if ear discomfort is causing you broader discomfort.

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are currently known for this product.
  • Do not use simultaneously with other ear drops unless advised by a healthcare professional.

 

How Should You Use Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

 

Always follow the instructions on the packaging. The standard method of use is as follows:

  1. Warm the bottle slightly by holding it in your hand for a minute or two — cold drops can cause dizziness.
  2. Tilt your head to one side so the affected ear faces upward.
  3. Gently pull the outer ear upward and backward to straighten the ear canal.
  4. Instil 5 drops into the ear canal.
  5. Keep your head tilted for 2–3 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate the wax.
  6. Place a small piece of cotton wool loosely at the ear opening to absorb any excess.
  7. Repeat for the other ear if needed.
  8. Use twice daily for up to four days.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Earwax softening and removal Adults and children 12+ 5 drops per affected ear Twice daily for up to 4 days
Pre-irrigation preparation Adults 5 drops per affected ear Twice daily for up to 4 days before procedure
Children under 12 Under 12 years Not recommended Seek medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

 

Side effects with these drops are uncommon when used as directed. Most people tolerate them well. However, you should be aware of the following:

Common side effects:

  • A mild fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear — this is normal and expected.
  • Temporary feeling of fullness in the ear during and after application.

Less common side effects:

  • Mild irritation or itching inside the ear canal.
  • Slight redness around the ear opening.
  • Dizziness if drops are applied cold (always warm the bottle first).

Stop using the drops and seek medical advice if you experience pain, discharge from the ear, sudden hearing loss, or any signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling or rash. These could indicate an underlying condition that needs professional assessment. You can also browse our Allergy and Hay Fever collection if you suspect an allergic component to your ear symptoms.

 

How Should You Store Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Dispose of any unused product safely — ask your pharmacist if unsure how.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Numark Earwax Removal Drops online in the UK?

You can buy Numark Earwax Removal Drops directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £3.69, with no prescription required. They are dispatched quickly and discreetly to your home address. Browse our full Ear, Nose & Throat collection for related products too.

How do Numark Earwax Removal Drops work in the ear?

The active ingredient, urea hydrogen peroxide 5%, releases oxygen when it contacts earwax inside the ear canal. This creates a gentle fizzing action that breaks apart and softens the wax plug. The loosened wax can then drain naturally or be removed more easily during ear irrigation.

How do I use Numark Earwax Removal Drops step by step?

Tilt your head to one side, gently pull the outer ear upward and backward, and instil 5 drops into the affected ear. Keep your head tilted for 2–3 minutes, then place a small piece of cotton wool loosely at the ear opening. Repeat twice daily for up to four days.

How long does it take for earwax removal drops to clear a blocked ear?

Most people notice a meaningful improvement within three to four days of using the drops twice daily. If your ear remains blocked after four days of treatment, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Persistent blockage may require professional ear irrigation or microsuction.

What is the correct dose of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

The recommended dose is 5 drops into the affected ear, twice daily, for up to four days. Do not exceed this dose or use for longer than recommended without seeking advice from a healthcare professional. This applies to adults and children aged 12 and over.

Can I use Numark Earwax Removal Drops if I have a perforated eardrum?

No — you must not use these drops if you have a perforated (burst) eardrum. Introducing any liquid into the middle ear through a perforation can cause pain, infection, and further damage. If you are unsure whether your eardrum is intact, consult your GP before using any ear drops.

Are Numark Earwax Removal Drops safe for children?

These drops are not recommended for children under 12 years of age without medical supervision. For children aged 12 and over, they can be used following the standard adult dosage instructions. If your child is younger and has earwax concerns, speak to your GP or health visitor for appropriate guidance.

What are the side effects of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

The most commonly reported experience is a mild fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear, which is a normal part of how the drops work. Less commonly, some people notice mild irritation or itching in the ear canal. If you experience pain, discharge, or sudden hearing loss, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.

Who is eligible to use Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

These drops are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have symptoms of earwax buildup such as blocked hearing, ear fullness, or mild earache. They are not suitable for people with a perforated eardrum, active ear infection, grommets, or recent ear surgery. Always read the label before use.

What happens if I use too many drops or use them for too long?

Using more drops than recommended or continuing beyond four days without improvement is not advised and may cause irritation to the delicate skin of the ear canal. If you accidentally use too many drops, gently tilt your head to allow excess liquid to drain out. Contact your pharmacist if you are concerned.

What are the alternatives to Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

Common alternatives include olive oil ear drops, sodium bicarbonate ear drops, and almond oil — all of which the NHS recognises as suitable home remedies for softening earwax. If drops alone are insufficient, your GP may refer you for ear irrigation or microsuction. You can explore other ear and throat products in our Ear, Nose & Throat collection.

How long can I use Numark Earwax Removal Drops for?

These drops should be used for a maximum of four days per treatment course. They are not intended for long-term or preventative daily use. If your ears block up repeatedly, speak to your GP about whether a longer-term management plan — such as regular professional ear cleaning — might be more appropriate for you.

Can I use earwax removal drops before ear syringing or microsuction?

Yes — in fact, many GP practices and audiology clinics recommend using cerumenolytic drops for three to five days before ear irrigation or microsuction. Softening the wax beforehand makes the procedure more comfortable and more effective. Always follow the specific advice given by the clinician performing the procedure.

Can I use Numark Earwax Removal Drops if I wear hearing aids?

People who wear hearing aids are actually more prone to earwax buildup, as the device can interfere with the ear's natural self-cleaning process. You can use these drops to manage wax, but remove your hearing aid before applying the drops and wait until the ear is fully dry before reinserting it. Speak to your audiologist if wax buildup is a recurring issue.

What does the latest research say about hydrogen peroxide ear drops for earwax?

Urea hydrogen peroxide has been used as a cerumenolytic agent for decades and is well-established in clinical practice. The NHS and BNF both recognise hydrogen peroxide-based ear drops as an appropriate option for earwax softening. Evidence supports their use as a safe and effective first-line home treatment for uncomplicated earwax impaction in adults.

How Should You Use Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

Using these drops correctly makes a real difference to how well they work. Before you start, warm the bottle by holding it in your hand for a minute — cold drops can cause temporary dizziness. Follow these steps carefully each time you apply the drops:

Do not insert the dropper tip into the ear canal itself. Avoid using cotton buds to try to remove wax after applying the drops — this can push wax deeper and worsen the blockage.

What Is the Correct Dose of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

The dose is straightforward and consistent for all eligible users. Always stick to the recommended amount — using more drops does not speed up the process and may cause unnecessary irritation to the ear canal lining.

When Is the Best Time to Use Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

There is no single fixed time of day that is clinically superior, but many people find it easiest to use the drops in the morning and again in the evening — for example, after breakfast and before bed. Applying them at consistent times helps you remember both daily doses. Using them before bed can be particularly convenient, as you can lie still for a few minutes after application without needing to rush anywhere.

Avoid applying the drops immediately before swimming or showering, as water entering the ear canal shortly after application may wash the drops out before they have had time to work effectively.

How Long Can You Use Numark Earwax Removal Drops For?

These drops are designed for short-term use only. The recommended treatment course is up to four days, used twice daily. Most people find their symptoms resolve within this period. If your ear still feels blocked after four days of consistent use, do not continue using the drops — instead, speak to your pharmacist or GP, who may recommend professional ear irrigation or microsuction.

These drops are not suitable for long-term or preventative daily use. If you find your ears block up frequently, it is worth discussing this pattern with your GP to identify whether an underlying cause needs addressing.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

The most frequently reported experience when using these drops is a mild fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear canal. This is entirely expected — it is the oxygen being released by the urea hydrogen peroxide as it contacts the earwax, and it means the drops are working. Most people find this sensation mild and tolerable.

  • Fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear during and after application.
  • Temporary feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
  • Slight warmth inside the ear canal immediately after instillation.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

Some people may experience mild local reactions, particularly if they have sensitive skin inside the ear canal or if the drops are used more frequently than recommended. These effects are generally short-lived and resolve once you stop using the product.

  • Mild itching or irritation inside the ear canal.
  • Slight redness around the outer ear opening.
  • Temporary dizziness if the drops are applied cold — always warm the bottle first.
  • A sensation of increased ear fullness as loosened wax shifts position.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Numark Earwax Removal Drops?

Serious side effects are rare when the drops are used correctly in people without contraindications. However, you should be alert to the following warning signs, which may indicate an underlying problem requiring medical attention:

  • Sudden or worsening hearing loss.
  • Pain inside the ear during or after application.
  • Discharge or fluid leaking from the ear.
  • Signs of an allergic reaction: swelling, rash, or severe itching around the ear.
  • Persistent dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo).

If any of these occur, stop using the drops immediately and seek medical advice. Do not attempt to continue treatment.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as temporary fizzing or slight irritation, no specific action is usually needed — these typically resolve on their own. If irritation persists, stop using the drops and allow the ear to settle before seeking advice from your pharmacist. For more serious symptoms such as pain, discharge, or sudden hearing loss, contact your GP or call NHS 111 promptly.

You can report suspected side effects from any medicine in the UK directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Numark Earwax Removal Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions between urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops and other medicines have been identified. However, if you are already using another ear preparation — such as antibiotic ear drops or steroid ear drops — you should not use both products simultaneously without first checking with your pharmacist. Allow sufficient time between applications and follow professional guidance on sequencing. If you are taking any prescribed medicines for ear conditions, always inform your pharmacist before starting a new ear product.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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