Can you use expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution? 

Can you use expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution? 

No, it is not recommended to use expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution. Liquid preparations are not as stable as solid ones and they should not be used past the expiration date. 

The preservatives added in such formulations can start to become ineffective, which increases the risk of bacterial contamination. Studies have also reported that Antipyrine and Benzocaine may begin to lose their efficacy as well, once the otic solution is past the expiration date. 

What are the possible dangers associated with the use of expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution? 

Expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution will most definitely result in therapeutic failure. If the solution has become contaminated, it may cause your ear infection to become much worse by introducing more bacteria. 

This is why it’s not recommended to use expired medications, especially liquid dosage forms which are intended for otic and ophthalmic use (1). 

What to do if you have used expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution? 

If you feel unusual or your pain worsens after using expired Antipyrine and Benzocaine otic solution, immediately reach out to your healthcare provider. If nothing happens, don’t worry. Just make sure you don’t put the expired solution in your ears again. 

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References

1.-

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Don’t Be Tempted to Use Expired Medicines [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): U.S. Food and Drug Administration; 2021 [cited 2022 Oct 27]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/special-features/dont-be-tempted-use-expired-medicines.