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Otex Express Combi Pack - 10ml

Otex Express Combi Pack - 10ml

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  • ✔️ Softens and disperses hardened earwax with urea hydrogen peroxide
  • ✔️ Includes bulb syringe for complete two-step wax removal
  • ✔️ Works in as little as 3 to 5 days of twice-daily use
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged one year and over
  • ✔️ Treats blocked ear symptoms including muffled hearing and fullness

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What Are Otex Express Ear Wax Removal Drops?

 

Blocked ears are frustrating. That muffled, full feeling — sometimes accompanied by mild discomfort or even temporary hearing loss — is one of the most common reasons people visit their pharmacist. The Otex Express Combi Pack 10ml is an over-the-counter solution designed to tackle earwax build-up at home, without the need for a GP appointment. It contains ear wax removal drops formulated with urea hydrogen peroxide 5%, a well-established active ingredient that softens and disperses compacted earwax. The combi pack also includes a bulb syringe, giving you everything you need for a two-step softening and gentle irrigation process. You can browse our full range of ear, nose, and throat products if you're looking for additional support alongside this treatment.

Earwax, or cerumen, 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 accumulates and hardens — particularly in people who use cotton buds, hearing aids, or ear plugs regularly. The NHS estimates that earwax blockage is one of the most common ear problems in the UK, affecting people of all ages.

 

How Does Otex Express Combi Pack Work?

 

The mechanism is straightforward but effective. Urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen when it comes into contact with earwax. That gentle fizzing action breaks down the structure of the wax, softening it so it can either drain naturally or be flushed out more easily during the irrigation step.

  • Urea hydrogen peroxide 5% penetrates and softens hardened earwax
  • Oxygen release creates a mild effervescent action that loosens wax from the canal walls
  • Softened wax drains naturally or is removed using the included bulb syringe
  • The bulb syringe allows gentle warm-water irrigation to flush residual wax from the ear canal

The two-step approach — drops first, then irrigation — is consistent with guidance from ear care specialists and mirrors the method used in many clinical settings for non-impacted wax removal.

 

Who Should Use Otex Express Combi Pack?

 

This product is suitable for adults and children aged 1 year and over who are experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up. It's particularly useful if you've noticed a gradual reduction in hearing, a sensation of fullness in the ear, or mild earache that isn't associated with infection. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.

  • Adults with earwax build-up causing muffled hearing or discomfort
  • Children aged 1 and over (under adult supervision)
  • People who regularly use hearing aids or ear plugs and are prone to wax accumulation
  • Those seeking a home-based alternative to clinical ear irrigation

Do not use this product if you have a perforated eardrum, an active ear infection, grommets in place, or if you have had ear surgery. If you're unsure, speak to your pharmacist before use. If ear pain is severe or accompanied by fever or discharge, seek medical advice promptly — these symptoms may indicate an infection rather than simple wax build-up.

 

How Does Otex Express Compare to Other Earwax Treatments?

 

Feature Otex Express Combi Pack Olive Oil Ear Drops
Active ingredient Urea hydrogen peroxide 5% Olive oil (no active pharmaceutical ingredient)
Speed of action 3–5 days typical Up to 2–4 weeks
Includes irrigation tool Yes — bulb syringe included No
Suitable for children under 1 No Seek pharmacist advice

 

Is Otex Express Suitable for Long-Term or Repeated Use?

 

Otex Express is intended for short-term use to clear a specific episode of earwax build-up. If you find yourself needing ear wax removal drops very frequently — say, every few weeks — it's worth speaking to your GP or an audiologist, as recurrent blockages may warrant further investigation or a regular maintenance plan. Overuse of any ear drop preparation without clinical guidance isn't recommended.

Store the product below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children. Once opened, check the product's in-use shelf life on the packaging. If you're managing other minor health concerns alongside ear care, our pain relief range may also be helpful for associated discomfort.

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.

Otex Express Combi Pack 10ml specifications
Treatment category Ear care / Earwax removal
Active ingredient Urea hydrogen peroxide 5%
Mechanism of action Releases oxygen to soften and disperse earwax
Suitable for Adults and children aged 1 year and over
Pack size 10ml drops + bulb syringe
UK classification General Sale Medicine (GSL)
Drug class Cerumenolytic agent
Preparation Ear drops, solution
Route of administration Otic (into the ear canal)

Specifications of Otex Express Combi Pack 10ml

 

What Is Otex Express Combi Pack and What Is It Used For?

 

Otex Express Combi Pack 10ml is an over-the-counter cerumenolytic (earwax-softening) preparation used to treat earwax build-up in the ear canal. It contains urea hydrogen peroxide 5% as its active ingredient, which works by releasing oxygen to break down and soften hardened or impacted earwax. The pack also includes a bulb syringe to help irrigate the ear after the drops have had time to work. It is classified as a General Sale Medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription from pharmacies and online retailers.

Common symptoms that suggest earwax build-up include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, reduced hearing, mild earache, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), or an itching sensation. If you're experiencing any of these, ear wax removal drops like Otex Express may help resolve the blockage at home.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Otex Express Combi Pack?

 

Before using this product, read the following carefully. There are situations where Otex Express should not be used, and ignoring these warnings could cause harm.

Do not use Otex Express if you:

  • Have or suspect a perforated (burst) eardrum
  • Have an active ear infection (otitis externa or otitis media)
  • Have grommets (tympanostomy tubes) in place
  • Have had ear surgery in the past 12 months
  • Are allergic to urea hydrogen peroxide or any other ingredient in the product
  • Are using this product in a child under 1 year of age

Drug interactions:

  • No significant drug interactions with urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops are currently documented
  • If you are using other ear drops prescribed by your doctor, seek pharmacist advice before combining treatments

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist before use, although topical otic preparations of this type are generally considered low risk when used as directed.

 

How Should You Use Otex Express Combi Pack?

 

Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet supplied with the product. The two-step process — drops followed by irrigation — is designed to be used over several days for best results.

  1. Warm the drops slightly by holding the bottle in your hand for a few minutes (never heat in a microwave or hot water)
  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 cotton wool ball loosely at the ear opening to absorb any excess — do not push it in
  7. Repeat twice daily for up to 5 days, or as directed
  8. After the wax has softened, fill the bulb syringe with warm (body temperature) water and gently irrigate the ear canal to flush out loosened wax
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Earwax build-up Adults and children aged 1+ 5 drops per affected ear Twice daily for up to 5 days
Earwax build-up Under 1 year Not recommended Not applicable

If symptoms persist after 5 days of use, stop and consult your pharmacist or GP. Do not use the bulb syringe forcefully — gentle pressure only. You can find further guidance on ear care and related conditions in our ear, nose, and throat section.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Otex Express Combi Pack?

 

Like all medicines, Otex Express can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most are mild and resolve on their own.

Common side effects:

  • Fizzing or bubbling sensation in the ear (this is normal and caused by oxygen release)
  • Mild, temporary warmth in the ear canal
  • Slight increase in ear fullness immediately after instillation

Less common side effects:

  • Mild irritation or itching of the ear canal
  • Temporary dizziness (if drops are too cold or instilled too quickly)
  • Skin sensitivity around the outer ear

Stop using the product and seek medical advice if you experience pain, discharge from the ear, sudden hearing loss, or any sign of allergic reaction such as swelling or rash. If you're managing associated discomfort, our pain relief collection includes options that may help with mild earache while you treat the underlying wax blockage.

 

How Should You Store Otex Express Combi Pack?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not refrigerate
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Once opened, use within the period stated on the label
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product to your pharmacy

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 Otex Express Combi Pack online in the UK?

You can buy Otex Express Combi Pack 10ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £7.49. It is available without a prescription and can be ordered for home delivery. It is also stocked in some high street pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.

How do Otex Express ear wax removal drops work in the ear?

Otex Express contains urea hydrogen peroxide 5%, which releases oxygen on contact with earwax. This gentle effervescent action breaks down the wax structure, softening it so it can drain naturally or be flushed out with the included bulb syringe. The two-step process — drops then irrigation — makes it one of the more thorough home earwax treatments available over the counter.

How do I use Otex Express Combi Pack step by step?

Tilt your head to one side, instil 5 drops into the affected ear, and keep your head tilted for 2–3 minutes. Repeat twice daily for up to 5 days. Once the wax has softened, use the bulb syringe filled with warm water to gently irrigate the ear canal and flush out the loosened wax.

How long does Otex Express take to clear a blocked ear?

Most people notice improvement within 3 to 5 days of twice-daily use. Harder or more impacted wax may take the full 5-day course before the ear clears. If there is no improvement after 5 days, stop use and consult your pharmacist or GP, as the blockage may need professional removal.

What is the correct dose of Otex Express for adults?

The recommended dose for adults is 5 drops into the affected ear, twice daily. Do not exceed this dose. If both ears are blocked, you can treat each ear separately using the same dosing schedule. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the product before use.

Can children use Otex Express ear drops?

Otex Express is not suitable for children under 1 year of age. For children aged 1 and over, it may be used under close adult supervision using the same 5-drop dose. If you are unsure whether ear drops are appropriate for your child, speak to a pharmacist or GP before use.

Can I use Otex Express if I have a perforated eardrum?

No — Otex Express must not be used if you have or suspect a perforated eardrum. The drops could pass through the perforation into the middle ear, potentially causing damage or infection. If you are unsure whether your eardrum is intact, see your GP before using any ear drops.

What are the side effects of Otex Express ear drops?

The most common side effect is a mild fizzing or bubbling sensation in the ear, which is a normal sign that the drops are working. Some people experience temporary mild irritation or warmth in the ear canal. Stop use and seek medical advice if you develop pain, discharge, sudden hearing loss, or any allergic reaction.

How do I manage side effects of Otex Express?

The fizzing sensation is expected and usually settles within a few minutes — simply keep your head tilted and allow it to pass. If you experience dizziness, this is often caused by drops that are too cold; warm the bottle in your hands before use. For persistent irritation or discomfort, stop the drops and consult your pharmacist. You can also explore our first aid range for minor ear care support.

Who is eligible to use Otex Express Combi Pack?

Otex Express is suitable for adults and children aged 1 year and over who have earwax build-up causing symptoms such as muffled hearing, ear fullness, or mild earache. It is not suitable for people with a perforated eardrum, active ear infection, grommets, or recent ear surgery. Always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure.

What happens if I miss a dose of Otex Express?

If you miss a dose, simply apply the drops at the next scheduled time — do not double up to compensate. Missing one application is unlikely to significantly affect the outcome, as the drops work cumulatively over several days. Consistency is key, so try to stick to your twice-daily routine as closely as possible.

What are the alternatives to Otex Express for earwax removal?

Common alternatives include olive oil ear drops, which are recommended by the NHS as a gentle first-line option, and sodium bicarbonate ear drops. For more stubborn blockages, a GP or audiologist can perform professional ear irrigation or microsuction. You can browse related products in our ear, nose, and throat collection for further options.

How long can you use Otex Express for?

Otex Express is intended for short-term use only — typically up to 5 days per episode of earwax build-up. It should not be used continuously as a long-term maintenance treatment without medical advice. If you find you need ear drops very frequently, speak to your GP or an audiologist about the underlying cause.

What is the difference between Otex Express and standard Otex ear drops?

Both Otex Express and standard Otex drops contain urea hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient. The key difference is that Otex Express is marketed as a faster-acting formulation and comes as a combi pack with a bulb syringe for irrigation, making it a more complete home treatment kit. Standard Otex drops are used alone without an irrigation step.

Is there any latest research supporting urea hydrogen peroxide for earwax removal?

Urea hydrogen peroxide has been used as a cerumenolytic agent for decades and is recognised in UK clinical guidance as an effective option for softening earwax prior to irrigation. The NHS recommends cerumenolytic drops — including those containing hydrogen peroxide compounds — as a first-line approach before considering professional ear irrigation. No new safety concerns have emerged from recent clinical literature regarding its short-term otic use.

How Should You Use Otex Express Combi Pack?

Using Otex Express correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. The two-step process — drops first, then gentle irrigation — is designed to be straightforward, but following each step carefully will give you the best chance of clearing the blockage.

Never insert the syringe tip deeply into the ear canal. Aim the water stream gently toward the upper wall of the canal, not directly at the eardrum.

What Is the Correct Dose of Otex Express Combi Pack?

The standard dose is 5 drops per affected ear, applied twice daily. Do not use more than this — more drops will not speed up the process and may cause unnecessary irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Otex Express Combi Pack?

There is no strict requirement to use the drops at a specific time of day, but many people find it easiest to apply them in the morning and again in the evening — for example, after breakfast and before bed. Applying the drops before lying down can help them stay in contact with the wax for longer, which may improve softening. Just make sure you remain with your head tilted for the full 2–3 minutes after each application, regardless of when you use them.

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

How Long Can You Use Otex Express Combi Pack For?

Otex Express is intended for short-term use only. The recommended course is up to 5 days of twice-daily application. Most people find their symptoms resolve within this period. If the blockage has not cleared after 5 days, do not continue using the drops — stop and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP, as the wax may need to be removed professionally by microsuction or clinical irrigation.

Using ear drops for longer than recommended without medical supervision is not advised. If you experience recurrent earwax build-up, speak to your GP or an audiologist about a longer-term management plan rather than relying on repeated courses of drops.

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

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Otex Express Combi Pack?

The most frequently reported experience when using Otex Express is a fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear. This is entirely expected — it is caused by the release of oxygen as urea hydrogen peroxide contacts the earwax. It is not a sign that anything is wrong. Most people find it settles within a few minutes of instilling the drops.

  • Fizzing or bubbling sensation in the ear canal
  • Mild temporary warmth inside the ear
  • A brief feeling of increased fullness immediately after instillation

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Otex Express Combi Pack?

Some people experience mild side effects that are less typical but still worth being aware of. These are generally short-lived and resolve once the drops are absorbed or drain from the ear.

  • Mild itching or irritation of the ear canal lining
  • Temporary dizziness — usually caused by drops that are too cold; always warm the bottle before use
  • Slight skin sensitivity or redness around the outer ear opening
  • Temporary muffling of hearing immediately after application (this usually resolves quickly)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Otex Express Combi Pack?

Serious side effects are rare when Otex Express is used correctly and in appropriate patients. However, you should be aware of the following warning signs that require prompt medical attention. Using the drops in a perforated eardrum, for example, could allow the solution to enter the middle ear, potentially causing pain, infection, or damage to delicate structures.

  • Severe or worsening ear pain
  • Discharge from the ear (particularly if discoloured or foul-smelling)
  • Sudden or significant hearing loss
  • Signs of allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, or throat; rash; difficulty breathing

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Otex Express?

For mild side effects such as fizzing or temporary warmth, no action is needed — simply keep your head tilted and allow the sensation to pass. If you experience dizziness, ensure you are warming the bottle adequately before use. For persistent irritation, stop the drops and allow the ear to settle before seeking pharmacist advice.

If you develop any of the serious side effects listed above — particularly pain, discharge, or sudden hearing loss — stop using the product immediately and contact your GP or call NHS 111. Do not attempt to continue the course if you are concerned about your symptoms.

Can Otex Express Interact With Other Medicines?

No significant drug interactions with urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops are currently documented in the BNF or clinical literature. However, if you are already using prescription ear drops — such as antibiotic or steroid preparations — you should not combine them with Otex Express without first speaking to your pharmacist or GP. Using two different ear drop preparations simultaneously without guidance could affect the efficacy of either product or cause unexpected irritation.

Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter products, before starting a new treatment.

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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