Description: Carbamide peroxide, also known as urea hydrogen peroxide, is an otic and topical (oral) preparation. The otic formulations are used to remove ear wax (cerumen) impaction. Mineral oil, olive oil, and dilute hydrogen peroxide solutions are inexpensive agents used to soften ear wax. One in-vitro study demonstrated that liquid docusate sodium had better efficacy than carbamide peroxide in dissolving ear wax.[3353] Oral carbamide peroxide solutions are antiseptics used in the treatment of canker sores (apthous ulcers), gingivitis, and in minor irritations. Topical carbamide peroxide can also be used as an adjunct to oral hygiene after regular brushing or when normal oral hygiene is not possible. Safety and efficacy data for oral use of carbamide peroxide is lacking. Many cosmetic dental whitening systems contain carbamide peroxide 1020% as the active ingredient.
Pharmacokinetics:Carbamide peroxide is administered topically to the ear canal or to the oral mucosa. Significant systemic absorption is not anticipated with short-term clinical use, as the drug dissociates into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen.
Mechanism of Action: Carbamide peroxide releases hydrogen peroxide and oxygen upon contact with tissue enzymes. The release of oxygen results in a weak antibacterial effect, deodorant action and effervescence that aids in removal of debris. Carbamide peroxide helps to soften impacted cerumen and debrides oral lesions through its foaming action. Many otic preparations also contain anhydrous glycerin that has emollient and humectant properties.
Pharmacokinetics:Carbamide peroxide is administered topically to the ear canal or to the oral mucosa. Significant systemic absorption is not anticipated with short-term clinical use, as the drug dissociates into hydrogen peroxide and oxygen.
Mechanism of Action: Carbamide peroxide releases hydrogen peroxide and oxygen upon contact with tissue enzymes. The release of oxygen results in a weak antibacterial effect, deodorant action and effervescence that aids in removal of debris. Carbamide peroxide helps to soften impacted cerumen and debrides oral lesions through its foaming action. Many otic preparations also contain anhydrous glycerin that has emollient and humectant properties.
