Phenazone

Phenazone, known in the U.S. as antipyrine, is a pain reliever, and a fever reducer. It is combined in ear drops (otic drops) with benzocaine, a medication used to numb the ear. It is used to relieve ear pain caused by infections, and remove a build up of ear wax.

The combination of phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine works by reducing pain and discomfort in the ear.

Phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine otic comes as a solution (liquid) to place into the ear. When used to relieve ear pain, it is usually used every 1 to 2 hours as needed. When used to help in the removal of ear wax, it is usually used 3 times daily for 2-3 days.

A common side effect is dizziness.

Phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine otic is used to relieve ear pain and swelling caused by middle ear infections. It may be used along with antibiotics to treat an ear infection. It is also used to help remove a build up of ear wax in the ear. 

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully.

Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of its ingredients including phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about inactive ingredients.

This medication may not be appropriate for you if you have a hole in the eardrum (perforated tympanic membrane).

This medication is generally well tolerated with very few side effects expected. 

Dizziness can occur, especially if this medication is instilled into the ear while cold. Warm the solution by holding the container in your hand for a few minutes to warm it.

Serious side effects that should be reported right away include:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• burning, redness, swelling, or pain in the ear

This is not a complete list of side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

When used as an otic solution, this medication is unlikely to interact with other medications.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

The FDA categorizes medications based on safety for use during pregnancy. Five categories - A, B, C, D, and X, are used to classify the possible risks to an unborn baby when a medication is taken during pregnancy.

Phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine otic falls into category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

It is not known if phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine otic crosses into human milk. Because many medications can cross into human milk and because of the possibility for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants with use of this medication, a choice should be made whether to stop nursing or stop the use of this medication. Your doctor and you will decide if the benefits outweigh the risk of using this medication.

Phenazone (antipyrine) and benzocaine otic is for use only in the ears.

Warm the medication by holding the container for a few minutes before instilling drops into your ear. This will lower the risk of dizziness.

To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your ear or any other surface.