"Debrox" vs. Hydrogen Peroxide for Ear Wax

QUESTION: I have an 11 year old child with a hearing impairment, He also has
a problem with frequent build of earwax. His ear specialist recommends that
we use hydrogen peroxide, slightly diluted, to cleanse his ears about once a
month to avoid wax build up. His pediatrician says that peroxide frequently
can cause its own problems, and to use "Debrox" as needed. Do you have an
opinion on this matter?
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ANSWER: I always have a point of view that translates into an opinion. It's
pretty hard to choose between the advice of two physicians, both of whom you
trust, and it's too bad they are not in communication with one another so that
you would only have to deal with one consensus opinion. I have used both
methods in my practice, both with equal success and both without problems.
They are both quite effective in softening and loosening the wax (cerumen) and
keeping the ear canal clean. I believe the hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
slightly diluted is a bit cheaper, and can perform the job adequately and
efficiently. I am unaware of the problems your pediatrician is concerned
about (but would like to learn). Provided you use neither solution when there
is drainage or discharge from the ear, when there is ear pain, if there is any
sign of irritation or a rash, or when you child complains of dizziness, you
can pretty well "pay your penny and take your pick". My personal opinion?
OK! I use hydrogen peroxide to keep the wax out of my own ears, and I guess
what is good enough for me can be good enough for my readers.