Q & A

How long can I use Otinova?

Otinova can be used "intermittently" i.e. during periods of increased risk of developing ear canal inflammation, such as swimming/aquatic sports holidays. If you do not feel significantly better after 1-3 days of treatment you should contact your doctor. Salt precipitation in, and severe dehydration of, the ear canal may occur with overdosing and/or long-term use. Do not use Otinova for a continuous period of more than 7 days.

Can you use Otinova during pregnancy and when breast-feeding?

No specific studies in pregnant or lactating women have been conducted, and therefore Otinova should be used with caution. To be absolutely certain you should avoid using Otinova during pregnancy and when breast-feeding. Burow's solution however, which Otinova contains, has been used for a long time and is described in the pharmacopoeia. The use, effectiveness and safety of Burow’s solution is documented in several clinical studies. We know of no reports describing adverse events in pregnant or lactating women. The probability is considered very small that Otinova could affect foetal development, or pass into breast milk.

How long does a bottle of Otinova last?

Each spray mist dose contains 0.1 ml and an Otinova bottle contains 150 spray doses.

Why does it sting sometimes when spraying with Otinova?

Otinova is an acidic solution (low pH) and can therefore sting if the ear canal is inflamed and/or sore. The pain usually disappears relatively quickly. If you experience persistent pain you should contact your doctor.

Why does Otinova smell?

Otinova contains acetic acid, which has a characteristic odour. The smell usually quickly disappears after treatment.

How do you treat your ears as a preventive measure?

Start using Otinova immediately when ears become irritated and itchy. During periods of increased risk of developing otitis externa, e.g. seaside holidays, you can preventively spray Otinova morning and evening.

When do the symptoms subside when treating with Otinova?

The effect is usually relatively quick, but if you do not feel significantly better after 1-3 days you should contact your doctor.

What can sometimes feel "chappy" and "crunchy" in the ear canal after using Otinova?

Salt crystals precipitate when Otinova solution evaporates. The crystals may feel a bit "crackly" but are completely harmless. Troublesome salt precipitation in the ear canal may occur with overdosing and/or long term use.

How does Otinova differ from other ear products, for example, prescription antibiotic/steroid drops, acetic acid solution and alsol solution/alsol-alcohol?

Otinova is a non-prescription astringent, antibacterial and antimycotic (antifungal) solution that does not contain antibiotics. Otinova can therefore often be used instead of prescription ear preparations for the treatment of ear canal inflammation.

Acetic acid (2% or 4%) and alsol solution/alcohol are sometimes used for the prevention and treatment of external inflammation. None of these solutions, however, are registered by the Medical Products Agency for this indication. Otinova contains 8% acetic acid and approximately 20 times more aluminium salts than ACOs alsol solution/alcohol.