The human ear is a very complicated organ; it consists mainly of three parts: the inner ear, the middle ear and the outer ear. Otitis is any type of inflammation occurring in the ear. Ear Drops are preparations, either chemical or natural, aimed for the treatment of any inflammation or diseases in the ear; they are applied in different dosages and compositions according to type and extent of the ear problem.
The first type of ear drops is ear drops used for getting rid of excessive ear wax. Normally, ear wax (also known as cerumen) is formed by ear tissues for the protection and lubrication of outer ear, but sometimes, ear wax accumulates causing what is called cerumen impaction, this condition causes losing hearing
partially. Oil based ear drops or ear drops containing carbamide peroxide are used for softening and removing cerumen.
Second type is antibiotic ear drops, which are usually available by prescription. They are mainly used for the treatment of an ear infection, like otitis media or otitis externa. Antibiotic agents like neomycin, ciprofloxacin, nystatin, and polymyxin B can be used in an otic solution. Some Ear drops might also contain hydrocortisone; these are usually prescribed for treating the inflammation accompanying the infection.
Finally, ear drops containing benzocaine and antipyrine are used to relief pain.
