AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% – 10ml

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What Are AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Used For?
A build-up of earwax is one of the most common ear complaints seen in community pharmacies across the UK. Whilst earwax is a natural and necessary substance that helps protect the ear canal from dust, debris, and infection, it can occasionally accumulate to the point where it becomes impacted, causing symptoms such as a sensation of fullness in the ear, reduced hearing, earache, tinnitus, and dizziness. AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are formulated to help soften and break down hardened earwax, making it easier for the ear to expel naturally or preparing the ear canal for professional irrigation or syringing.
The active ingredient is urea hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 5% w/v. When instilled into the ear canal, urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen upon contact with the wax and the natural moisture of the ear. This gentle effervescent action helps to mechanically break apart and soften the wax, loosening its structure and facilitating its natural migration out of the ear canal. The glycerol base further contributes to this softening effect and helps the drops coat and penetrate the wax evenly for more effective action.
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are presented in a practical 10ml dropper bottle, making them straightforward to use at home without specialist equipment. The recommended course is typically twice daily for up to four days, providing a short, focused treatment period that fits easily into everyday routines. The drops are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over, and offer a well-established, pharmacist-recommended approach to managing earwax at home before considering referral for professional ear irrigation.
These drops are not suitable for use if you have a perforated eardrum, an ear infection, grommets in place, or have had recent ear surgery. If you are in any doubt about the condition of your eardrum or the cause of your ear symptoms, you should always seek advice from a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist or your GP before using any ear preparation. You can also explore our full ear care range for additional earwax management products.
How to Use AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
- Warm the drops slightly. Before use, hold the bottle in the palm of your hand for a minute or two to warm the drops to approximately body temperature. Using cold drops in the ear can sometimes cause dizziness. Do not heat the bottle in a microwave or in hot water.
- Lie on your side. Lie down with the affected ear facing upwards. This position allows the drops to flow into the ear canal and remain in contact with the wax rather than running straight out.
- Gently pull the outer ear. Using your free hand, gently pull the outer part of the ear (the pinna) upwards and backwards in adults, or downwards and backwards in children aged 12 and over. This helps to straighten the ear canal and allows the drops to reach the wax more easily.
- Instil 5 drops. Hold the dropper bottle above the ear canal opening and gently squeeze to release 5 drops into the ear. Try not to insert the nozzle into the ear canal itself.
- Remain lying down for several minutes. Stay in the same position for at least 2 to 5 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate and act on the wax. You may hear a gentle fizzing or bubbling sound — this is the normal effervescent action of the urea hydrogen peroxide breaking down the wax.
- Allow the ear to drain. After the waiting period, sit upright or tilt your head to the other side and allow any excess fluid to drain from the ear onto a clean tissue or cotton wool placed at the entrance to the ear canal. Do not push cotton wool or any object into the ear canal.
- Repeat for the other ear if needed. If both ears are affected, repeat the process on the other side.
- Replace the cap and store correctly. Replace the dropper cap firmly after each use and store the bottle as directed.
Tips for best results
- Use the drops consistently twice daily for the full recommended course of up to 4 days for best results.
- Never insert cotton buds, fingers, or any other object into the ear canal to try to remove wax — this can push the wax deeper and cause further blockage or injury.
- If the drops cause significant pain or discomfort rather than just a mild sensation, stop immediately and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.
- If wax does not clear after the full course, contact your GP surgery or pharmacist to arrange professional ear irrigation.
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Side Effects
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are generally well tolerated when used as directed. The following side effects are based on the known profile of urea hydrogen peroxide used topically in the ear.
Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)
- A fizzing, bubbling, or crackling sensation inside the ear canal during and immediately after instillation — this is expected and indicates the product is actively working on the wax
- A mild feeling of warmth or tingling in the ear during use
Less common side effects (may affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
- Mild, temporary irritation or itching of the ear canal
- Brief, mild dizziness immediately after instillation, particularly if the drops were applied cold
- Temporary increase in the sensation of ear fullness during treatment as the wax begins to break down
Rare side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 100 people)
- Skin irritation or soreness inside the ear canal with prolonged use
- Allergic reaction to one or more ingredients, presenting as persistent itching, swelling, or rash in or around the ear
Stop using and seek medical help if you experience:
- Significant ear pain or a burning sensation that does not resolve quickly after instillation
- Any discharge from the ear, or new or worsening hearing loss
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the outer ear, which may indicate infection
- Severe dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) that does not pass quickly
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, throat, or difficulty breathing — call 999 immediately
Report any unexpected reaction via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk, or speak to your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist.
How to Store AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
- Temperature: Store below 25°C. Keep away from direct heat and sunlight.
- After opening: Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening. Write the date of opening on the label as a reminder.
- Cap: Replace the dropper cap firmly after every use to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.
- Do not refrigerate.
- Children: Keep out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
- Expiry: Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and outer packaging.
- Disposal: Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist about safe disposal.
Who Are AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Suitable For?
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who wish to soften and help remove a build-up of hardened earwax at home.
Suitable for:
- Adults aged 18 and over experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up, such as a blocked or full sensation in the ear, mild hearing reduction, or earache
- Young people aged 12 to 17, subject to appropriate adult supervision
- Those preparing the ear canal prior to professional ear irrigation or syringing by a healthcare professional
- People who experience recurrent earwax build-up and wish to manage it proactively at home
Not suitable for:
- Children under 12 years of age, unless specifically directed by a doctor
- Anyone with a perforated (burst) eardrum or a history of eardrum perforation
- Those with grommets or other surgical implants in the ear
- People with an active ear infection — symptoms may include pain, discharge, swelling, or fever
- Anyone who has had ear surgery, unless advised by their surgeon or doctor that it is safe to use ear drops
- Those with a known allergy or sensitivity to urea hydrogen peroxide, glycerol, or any other ingredient
Seek advice before use if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are unsure whether your eardrum is intact
- Experience severe ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear — these symptoms require prompt medical assessment rather than self-treatment
- Have diabetes or a condition that affects circulation, as ear canal skin may be more fragile
If you are unsure whether AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are appropriate for your situation, speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist for free, expert guidance.
Active Ingredients in AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
| Ingredient | Strength | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Urea hydrogen peroxide | 5% w/v | The active ingredient. Urea hydrogen peroxide is a compound that releases oxygen upon contact with moisture and the organic material in earwax. This effervescent action gently breaks apart and softens the structure of hardened or impacted wax, making it easier for the ear to expel naturally. The urea component additionally helps to soften and condition the wax, enhancing the overall dispersing effect. It is a clinically recognised and widely used active ingredient for earwax removal preparations. |
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Dosage — How Much to Use
Adults and young people aged 12 and over
- Dose: Instil 5 drops into the affected ear or ears.
- Frequency: Twice daily — for example, morning and evening.
- Duration: Use for up to 4 days. If the blockage has not cleared after 4 days, do not continue to use the drops. Instead, consult your pharmacist or GP, who may recommend professional ear irrigation.
- Maximum daily dose: 5 drops per ear, twice daily.
Children under 12 years
Not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless specifically directed by a doctor.
Elderly patients
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly users. The standard adult dosage applies. If you have any concerns about skin sensitivity in the ear canal, consult your pharmacist before use.
Important dosage notes
- Do not use for more than 4 consecutive days without seeking professional advice.
- Do not exceed the stated dose.
- If symptoms worsen at any point during treatment, discontinue use and consult a pharmacist or GP.
Precautions When Using AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
Before you use this product
- Check the expiry date on the bottle and outer packaging. Do not use if the date has passed.
- Confirm that your eardrum is intact before using any ear drops. If you have ever had a perforated eardrum, grommets, or ear surgery, consult your GP before using this product.
- Do not use if you have any signs of ear infection — pain, warmth, swelling, discharge, or fever. Seek medical advice first.
- Warm the bottle in your hand before use to avoid instilling cold drops, which may cause temporary dizziness.
During use
- Do not insert the nozzle into the ear canal. Hold the bottle above the ear opening and allow the drops to fall in naturally.
- Do not use cotton buds or any object to try to remove wax from the ear canal at any point during treatment.
- The fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear is normal and indicates the drops are working. However, if you experience significant pain, a burning sensation, or sudden dizziness, stop immediately and seek advice.
- Do not use in both ears simultaneously if you rely on one ear for hearing while the other is being treated.
After the course
- Discard the bottle 28 days after opening, even if product remains, to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.
- Do not use for more than 4 consecutive days. If the blockage has not cleared, contact your GP or pharmacist to arrange professional ear irrigation rather than extending the course.
- Never attempt to remove wax mechanically using cotton buds or ear candles, as these approaches can cause injury or worsen the blockage.
When to seek medical advice
- Your symptoms worsen at any point during or after the course.
- You develop ear pain, discharge, fever, or swelling around the ear.
- Your hearing has not improved after completing the full course.
- You experience sudden or significant hearing loss at any time — this requires urgent medical assessment.
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists can advise on the most appropriate earwax treatment for your individual circumstances and can help arrange a referral for professional ear irrigation if needed.
Full Ingredients in AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
The active ingredient is urea hydrogen peroxide 5% w/v.
Excipients (inactive ingredients)
- Glycerol — acts as an additional wax-softening agent and helps the drops coat and penetrate the wax evenly; also provides a mild soothing effect on the skin of the ear canal
- Purified water — the aqueous base of the formulation
If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any ingredient, please read the patient information leaflet enclosed in the pack for the full and current excipient list, or speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist before use.
Last reviewed: May 2026.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use. A copy is included in the pack. For advice, speak to a Pearl Chemist pharmacist or call +44 (0)20 8672 2157.
What Are AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Used For?
A build-up of earwax is one of the most common ear complaints seen in community pharmacies across the UK. Whilst earwax is a natural and necessary substance that helps protect the ear canal from dust, debris, and infection, it can occasionally accumulate to the point where it becomes impacted, causing symptoms such as a sensation of fullness in the ear, reduced hearing, earache, tinnitus, and dizziness. AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are formulated to help soften and break down hardened earwax, making it easier for the ear to expel naturally or preparing the ear canal for professional irrigation or syringing.
The active ingredient is urea hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 5% w/v. When instilled into the ear canal, urea hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen upon contact with the wax and the natural moisture of the ear. This gentle effervescent action helps to mechanically break apart and soften the wax, loosening its structure and facilitating its natural migration out of the ear canal. The glycerol base further contributes to this softening effect and helps the drops coat and penetrate the wax evenly for more effective action.
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are presented in a practical 10ml dropper bottle, making them straightforward to use at home without specialist equipment. The recommended course is typically twice daily for up to four days, providing a short, focused treatment period that fits easily into everyday routines. The drops are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over, and offer a well-established, pharmacist-recommended approach to managing earwax at home before considering referral for professional ear irrigation.
These drops are not suitable for use if you have a perforated eardrum, an ear infection, grommets in place, or have had recent ear surgery. If you are in any doubt about the condition of your eardrum or the cause of your ear symptoms, you should always seek advice from a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist or your GP before using any ear preparation. You can also explore our full ear care range for additional earwax management products.
How to Use AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
- Warm the drops slightly. Before use, hold the bottle in the palm of your hand for a minute or two to warm the drops to approximately body temperature. Using cold drops in the ear can sometimes cause dizziness. Do not heat the bottle in a microwave or in hot water.
- Lie on your side. Lie down with the affected ear facing upwards. This position allows the drops to flow into the ear canal and remain in contact with the wax rather than running straight out.
- Gently pull the outer ear. Using your free hand, gently pull the outer part of the ear (the pinna) upwards and backwards in adults, or downwards and backwards in children aged 12 and over. This helps to straighten the ear canal and allows the drops to reach the wax more easily.
- Instil 5 drops. Hold the dropper bottle above the ear canal opening and gently squeeze to release 5 drops into the ear. Try not to insert the nozzle into the ear canal itself.
- Remain lying down for several minutes. Stay in the same position for at least 2 to 5 minutes to allow the drops to penetrate and act on the wax. You may hear a gentle fizzing or bubbling sound — this is the normal effervescent action of the urea hydrogen peroxide breaking down the wax.
- Allow the ear to drain. After the waiting period, sit upright or tilt your head to the other side and allow any excess fluid to drain from the ear onto a clean tissue or cotton wool placed at the entrance to the ear canal. Do not push cotton wool or any object into the ear canal.
- Repeat for the other ear if needed. If both ears are affected, repeat the process on the other side.
- Replace the cap and store correctly. Replace the dropper cap firmly after each use and store the bottle as directed.
Tips for best results
- Use the drops consistently twice daily for the full recommended course of up to 4 days for best results.
- Never insert cotton buds, fingers, or any other object into the ear canal to try to remove wax — this can push the wax deeper and cause further blockage or injury.
- If the drops cause significant pain or discomfort rather than just a mild sensation, stop immediately and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP.
- If wax does not clear after the full course, contact your GP surgery or pharmacist to arrange professional ear irrigation.
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Side Effects
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are generally well tolerated when used as directed. The following side effects are based on the known profile of urea hydrogen peroxide used topically in the ear.
Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)
- A fizzing, bubbling, or crackling sensation inside the ear canal during and immediately after instillation — this is expected and indicates the product is actively working on the wax
- A mild feeling of warmth or tingling in the ear during use
Less common side effects (may affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
- Mild, temporary irritation or itching of the ear canal
- Brief, mild dizziness immediately after instillation, particularly if the drops were applied cold
- Temporary increase in the sensation of ear fullness during treatment as the wax begins to break down
Rare side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 100 people)
- Skin irritation or soreness inside the ear canal with prolonged use
- Allergic reaction to one or more ingredients, presenting as persistent itching, swelling, or rash in or around the ear
Stop using and seek medical help if you experience:
- Significant ear pain or a burning sensation that does not resolve quickly after instillation
- Any discharge from the ear, or new or worsening hearing loss
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the outer ear, which may indicate infection
- Severe dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo) that does not pass quickly
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, throat, or difficulty breathing — call 999 immediately
Report any unexpected reaction via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk, or speak to your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist.
How to Store AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
- Temperature: Store below 25°C. Keep away from direct heat and sunlight.
- After opening: Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening. Write the date of opening on the label as a reminder.
- Cap: Replace the dropper cap firmly after every use to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.
- Do not refrigerate.
- Children: Keep out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
- Expiry: Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle and outer packaging.
- Disposal: Do not dispose of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist about safe disposal.
Who Are AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Suitable For?
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who wish to soften and help remove a build-up of hardened earwax at home.
Suitable for:
- Adults aged 18 and over experiencing symptoms of earwax build-up, such as a blocked or full sensation in the ear, mild hearing reduction, or earache
- Young people aged 12 to 17, subject to appropriate adult supervision
- Those preparing the ear canal prior to professional ear irrigation or syringing by a healthcare professional
- People who experience recurrent earwax build-up and wish to manage it proactively at home
Not suitable for:
- Children under 12 years of age, unless specifically directed by a doctor
- Anyone with a perforated (burst) eardrum or a history of eardrum perforation
- Those with grommets or other surgical implants in the ear
- People with an active ear infection — symptoms may include pain, discharge, swelling, or fever
- Anyone who has had ear surgery, unless advised by their surgeon or doctor that it is safe to use ear drops
- Those with a known allergy or sensitivity to urea hydrogen peroxide, glycerol, or any other ingredient
Seek advice before use if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are unsure whether your eardrum is intact
- Experience severe ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear — these symptoms require prompt medical assessment rather than self-treatment
- Have diabetes or a condition that affects circulation, as ear canal skin may be more fragile
If you are unsure whether AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% are appropriate for your situation, speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist for free, expert guidance.
Active Ingredients in AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
| Ingredient | Strength | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Urea hydrogen peroxide | 5% w/v | The active ingredient. Urea hydrogen peroxide is a compound that releases oxygen upon contact with moisture and the organic material in earwax. This effervescent action gently breaks apart and softens the structure of hardened or impacted wax, making it easier for the ear to expel naturally. The urea component additionally helps to soften and condition the wax, enhancing the overall dispersing effect. It is a clinically recognised and widely used active ingredient for earwax removal preparations. |
AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5% Dosage — How Much to Use
Adults and young people aged 12 and over
- Dose: Instil 5 drops into the affected ear or ears.
- Frequency: Twice daily — for example, morning and evening.
- Duration: Use for up to 4 days. If the blockage has not cleared after 4 days, do not continue to use the drops. Instead, consult your pharmacist or GP, who may recommend professional ear irrigation.
- Maximum daily dose: 5 drops per ear, twice daily.
Children under 12 years
Not recommended for children under 12 years of age unless specifically directed by a doctor.
Elderly patients
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly users. The standard adult dosage applies. If you have any concerns about skin sensitivity in the ear canal, consult your pharmacist before use.
Important dosage notes
- Do not use for more than 4 consecutive days without seeking professional advice.
- Do not exceed the stated dose.
- If symptoms worsen at any point during treatment, discontinue use and consult a pharmacist or GP.
Precautions When Using AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
Before you use this product
- Check the expiry date on the bottle and outer packaging. Do not use if the date has passed.
- Confirm that your eardrum is intact before using any ear drops. If you have ever had a perforated eardrum, grommets, or ear surgery, consult your GP before using this product.
- Do not use if you have any signs of ear infection — pain, warmth, swelling, discharge, or fever. Seek medical advice first.
- Warm the bottle in your hand before use to avoid instilling cold drops, which may cause temporary dizziness.
During use
- Do not insert the nozzle into the ear canal. Hold the bottle above the ear opening and allow the drops to fall in naturally.
- Do not use cotton buds or any object to try to remove wax from the ear canal at any point during treatment.
- The fizzing or bubbling sensation inside the ear is normal and indicates the drops are working. However, if you experience significant pain, a burning sensation, or sudden dizziness, stop immediately and seek advice.
- Do not use in both ears simultaneously if you rely on one ear for hearing while the other is being treated.
After the course
- Discard the bottle 28 days after opening, even if product remains, to maintain hygiene and prevent contamination.
- Do not use for more than 4 consecutive days. If the blockage has not cleared, contact your GP or pharmacist to arrange professional ear irrigation rather than extending the course.
- Never attempt to remove wax mechanically using cotton buds or ear candles, as these approaches can cause injury or worsen the blockage.
When to seek medical advice
- Your symptoms worsen at any point during or after the course.
- You develop ear pain, discharge, fever, or swelling around the ear.
- Your hearing has not improved after completing the full course.
- You experience sudden or significant hearing loss at any time — this requires urgent medical assessment.
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists can advise on the most appropriate earwax treatment for your individual circumstances and can help arrange a referral for professional ear irrigation if needed.
Full Ingredients in AACTIWAX Ear Drops 5%
The active ingredient is urea hydrogen peroxide 5% w/v.
Excipients (inactive ingredients)
- Glycerol — acts as an additional wax-softening agent and helps the drops coat and penetrate the wax evenly; also provides a mild soothing effect on the skin of the ear canal
- Purified water — the aqueous base of the formulation
If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any ingredient, please read the patient information leaflet enclosed in the pack for the full and current excipient list, or speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist before use.
Last reviewed: May 2026.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use. A copy is included in the pack. For advice, speak to a Pearl Chemist pharmacist or call +44 (0)20 8672 2157.
FAQs
The fizzing or bubbling sensation you hear and feel inside the ear during and after instillation is a sign that the urea hydrogen peroxide is actively releasing oxygen and breaking down the earwax. You may also notice that any sensation of fullness or reduced hearing begins to ease over the course of the treatment. If there is no improvement after the full 4-day course, contact your pharmacist or GP to arrange professional ear irrigation.
No. You should never use ear drops of any kind if there is any possibility that your eardrum may be perforated. Signs of a perforated eardrum can include a sudden sharp pain in the ear, discharge, a sudden reduction in hearing, and ringing in the ear. If you are in any doubt, consult your GP or a pharmacist before use. Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists can help you determine whether it is safe to self-treat or whether you need a medical examination first.
No. You should never insert cotton buds, fingers, or any other object into the ear canal. Cotton buds in particular are a leading cause of earwax impaction and ear canal injury, as they tend to push wax further in rather than removing it. Once softened by the drops, the wax should migrate naturally towards the outer ear over the course of treatment. Place a clean tissue at the entrance to the ear canal to catch any drainage.
The recommended course is twice daily for up to 4 days. Some people find their symptoms resolve before the full 4 days have passed, while others may complete the course and still require professional ear irrigation for complete clearance. Do not continue using the drops beyond 4 days without seeking pharmacist or GP advice.
No. Do not use these drops if you have any signs of an ear infection, including pain, discharge, swelling, or fever. An active infection requires medical assessment and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed antibiotic ear drops. Using wax-removal drops during an infection could potentially worsen the condition or cause further irritation. Seek advice from your GP or pharmacist first.
A mild tingling or fizzing sensation is normal and expected. However, if you experience significant pain, a burning sensation, or sudden severe dizziness after instilling the drops, stop use immediately and do not put any more drops in. Rinse the outer ear gently with clean, lukewarm water and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP. Significant pain may indicate that the eardrum is perforated or that there is an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
The safety of urea hydrogen peroxide ear drops during pregnancy has not been fully established. We recommend consulting your GP or midwife before use during pregnancy. An olive oil-based earwax softener, such as AACTIWAX Olive Oil Ear Drops, is often considered a more suitable option during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Speak to a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist for personalised advice.
You can treat both ears if both are affected, but it is generally more practical and comfortable to treat one ear at a time, as you will need to lie on your side for several minutes after instillation. If you rely on one ear for hearing while the other is being treated, you may prefer to treat each ear on alternate occasions rather than simultaneously.