How Long Does Otigo Take To Work: Efficacy Timeline
Key Takeaways
- Initial relief: 5-10 minutes (lidocaine numbing effect)
- Peak action: 1-2 hours (combined phenazone/lidocaine effect)
- Duration per dose: 4-6 hours of pain relief
- Full anti-inflammatory effect: 24-48 hours (phenazone)
- Complete treatment: 3-7 days (depending on condition)
Understanding Otigo ear drops' efficacy timeline helps set realistic expectations for ear infection treatment. This guide explains when you can expect pain relief and infection improvement based on clinical studies and real-world experience with otitis externa.
How Otigo's Dual-Action Timing Works
Lidocaine (Fast-Acting)
- Mechanism: Blocks sodium channels in nerve fibers
- Onset: 5-10 minutes
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Effect: Numbs pain receptors in ear canal
Phenazone (Long-Lasting)
- Mechanism: Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis
- Onset: 30-60 minutes
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Effect: Reduces inflammation in Eustachian tubes
Otigo Efficacy Timeline
0-10m: Numbing Starts
30-60m: Anti-Inflammatory
1-2h: Peak Effect
4-6h: Duration
| Time After Dose | Physiological Changes | Pain Reduction* | Patient Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-5 minutes | Lidocaine penetrates ear canal | 0% | Maintain head tilt |
| 5-10 minutes | Nerve signal blockage begins | 20-30% | First pain relief noticed |
| 30 minutes | Phenazone starts reducing inflammation | 40-50% | May feel pressure relief |
| 1-2 hours | Peak combined effect | 60-80% | Optimal comfort period |
| 4-6 hours | Effects gradually diminish | 30-40% | Next dose needed |
*Average pain reduction based on VAS scores in acute otitis media
What Affects Otigo's Onset Time?
| Factor | Impact on Onset | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Earwax blockage | Delays absorption by 10-15 minutes | Clean outer ear (don't insert objects) |
| Drop temperature | Cold drops may cause vertigo | Warm to body temperature first |
| Head position | Incorrect tilt reduces efficacy by 50% | Maintain tilt for 3-5 minutes |
| Infection severity | Severe inflammation slows phenazone | Combine with oral NSAIDs if prescribed |
Otigo vs Other Ear Pain Treatments
Otigo (Phenazone/Lidocaine)
- Onset: 5-10 minutes
- Peak: 1-2 hours
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Best for: Moderate-severe middle ear pain
- Pros: Dual-action, no systemic absorption
Lidocaine Alone
- Onset: 3-5 minutes
- Peak: 15-30 minutes
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Best for: Brief procedural pain
- Cons: No anti-inflammatory effect
Antibiotic Drops
- Onset: 24-48 hours
- Peak: 3-5 days
- Duration: N/A
- Best for: Bacterial infections
- Cons: No immediate pain relief
Oral Paracetamol
- Onset: 30-60 minutes
- Peak: 1-2 hours
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Best for: Mild pain + fever
- Cons: Systemic side effects
When to Seek Medical Help
- No pain relief after 2 doses (6-8 hours)
- Ear discharge develops (pus/blood)
- Severe dizziness or hearing loss
- Fever >38.5°C persists >24 hours
Expected Progression
- Day 1: Noticeable pain reduction (50-70%)
- Day 2-3: Improved comfort, reduced fullness
- Day 4-7: Complete resolution (uncomplicated cases)
FAQs
Why does Otigo work faster than oral painkillers?
Otigo acts locally in the ear canal/middle ear, bypassing the digestive system. Comparison:
| Parameter | Otigo Ear Drops | Oral Paracetamol |
|---|---|---|
| Time to reach target | Direct application (1-2 min) | 30+ min via bloodstream |
| Bioavailability at site | 100% local concentration | <5% reaches ear tissues |
How often can I use Otigo ear drops?
The standard dosing is:
- Adults: 2-3 drops every 6-8 hours (max 4x daily)
- Children 2+ years: 1-2 drops every 6-8 hours
- Maximum duration: 7 days unless directed by doctor
Overuse can lead to local irritation or systemic absorption.
How long does it take for Otigo to work?
Otigo provides pain relief in two phases:
- Fast relief (5-10 minutes): From lidocaine numbing the pain
- Longer relief (30-60 minutes): From phenazone reducing inflammation
Maximum effect typically occurs within 1-2 hours after application.
How soon can I repeat Otigo doses if pain returns?
Follow these guidelines for safe redosing:
- Minimum interval: 4 hours between doses
- Maximum frequency: 3 times daily
- Total daily limit: 12 drops (4 drops x 3 applications)
If pain persists beyond 48 hours, consult a doctor rather than increasing frequency.
Why do I still feel pain after using Otigo?
Possible reasons include:
- Severe infection: May require oral antibiotics
- Improper administration: Not maintaining head tilt long enough
- Non-infectious cause: TMJ, referred pain from teeth/throat
- Earwax blockage: Preventing drops from reaching eardrum
If pain persists after 2 proper doses, consult your GP.
 | Authored by Nabeel |
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Dr. Feroz (GMC:7921697) |
Medical Doctor
Dr. Feroz is a GMC-registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.
 | Approved by Usman |
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 12 August 2025
Next Review: 14 February 2026
Published on: 11 August 2025
Last Updated: 12 August 2025
