The ear wax removal systems I have used (OTC) worked by putting several drops in, letting it sit there for 10 minutes and then using a bulb syringe (big rubber thing) to squirt slightly warm water in my ear to flush things out.
I do not think the drops are meant to just sit in the ear without being flushed out in short order. The drops seem a bit oily so seem to linger if not flushed out.
As with all such things, follow the directions on the box (or from your doctor).