Abstract
The method of administering any drug solution to the external auditory canal in Japan is limited to using a dropper for liquids or topically applying ointment. In the present study, the possibility of an external ear spray was examined as a method of conveniently administering adequate drug solution to the external auditory canal. We used a trial product as an external ear spray, and used a cylinder made of paper as an external ear model. Regarding actual use, a questionnaire was used to compare the external ear spray to a liquid dropper. The results showed that the external ear spray could deliver the drug to a wider area of the external auditory canal compared with the dropper. Many respondents stated that the external ear spray was moreover more convenient to use than the dropper.
The results of our study suggest that the external ear spray is a potentially useful method for delivering drugs to the ear and merits further study.
