Tinnitus FAQ
www.bixby.org/faq/tinnitus.html
a resource for understanding tinnitus,
not a substitute for a health care provider
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Tinnitus FAQ |
www.bixby.org/faq/tinnitus.html
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| Quick Directory |
What drugs are available for treating tinnitus?
What vitamins are available for treating tinnitus?
What herbs are available for treating tinnitus?
What other treatments are available for tinnitus?
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| What drugs are available for treating tinnitus? |
Anti-Depressants, Tranquilizers,
and Muscle Relaxants
Anti-drepressants are drugs used to prevent or relieve mental depression. Tranquilizers are drugs that promote tranquility by calming, soothing, quieting, or pacifying without drpressant effects. Muscle relaxants are drugs that reduce tension in the muscle.
Many tinnitus sufferers become depressed from having to deal with the constant noise. Treating the depression may make the tinnitus seem less severe. But beware that certain ototoxic anti-depressants may worsen tinnitus. SSRI anti-depressants may temporarily worsen tinnitus for the first few weeks, but risk fewer side-effects as compared to the older tricyclic drugs.
Tricyclic anti-depressants, such as Nortriptyline and benzodiazepines, such as Alprazolam (Xanax) were used in one study in which some people reported improvement.
Possible reasons:
A benzodiazepine tranquilizer that is used in the management of anxiety disorders.
A double-blind study with placebo control showed 76% of the subjects benefited with tinnitus reductions of at least 40%, whereas only 5% of the placebo subjects had an improvement. Try 0.5mg at bedtime. Can be addicting, and may make you feel excessively mellow.
Article Abstract - Xanax Study Description |
| Use of Alprazolam for Relief of Tinnitus, A Double-Blind Study
Robert M. Johnson, PhD; Robert Brummett, PhD; Alexander Schleuning, MD
Reprint requests to 3515 SW Veterans Hospital Rd., Portland, OR 97201 (Dr. Johnson). Here's the Conclusion section of the article: CONCLUSION:
|
Patients in the Portland study reported an average tinnitus loudness of 7.5 dB before Xanax treatment, and 2.3 dB after.
Same class of drug as Xanax, but somewhat less effective and less addictive. Klonopin has not been tested for tinnitus reduction in rigorous scientific studies.
A word of warning: Big-time antidepressants like the tricyclics and Prozac cannot be expected to have an effect if the tinnitus sufferer does not suffer from an affective disorder originating in brain chemistry. Minor tranquilizers may help. But people should beware of trusting their friendly local internist/GP to prescribe drugs of this type. Current knowledge of psychopharmacology is essential. GP prescriptions of these drugs have messed up more facets of people's lives than just their hearing.
A drug that prevents or relieves convulsions.
Carbamazepine (Tegretol, a dangerous drug!), phenytoin (Dilantin), primidone (Mysoline), valproic acid (Depakene) have all shown some effectiveness in reducing tinnitus. But there is no standard dosage for tinnitus applications, and some of these drugs may cause dangerous side-effects that require careful monitoring via blood chemistry and other tests. Anti-convulsants have not been studied in rigorous scientific tests for reduction of tinnitus.
A synthethic amide (organic compound) delivered within or administered into a vein and used chiefly in the form of its hydrochloride as a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agent.
An initial injection of lidocaine followed by an IV drip may provide temporary relief to some sufferers. In one study, relief of up to 30 minutes after IV disconnection was reported by 23 out of 26 patients.
An oral antiarrhythmic agent, similar in action to lidocaine, used in the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias. This is an oral relative of lidocaine thought to act in a similar manner. Tocainide can have serious side-effects.
A physiologically active depressor amine used as a powerful stimulant of gastric secretion, constrictor of bronchial smooth muscle, and vasodilator.
On p.32 of Conn's Current Therapy, 1994, W.B. Saunders Co., MDs Jack C. Clemis and Sally McDonald write "The authors' choice for pharmacotherapy is histamine. In a study awaiting publication, nearly 70% of patients treated with histamine achieved complete or partial resolution of their symptoms."
Any of several drugs used to couneract the physiological effects of histamine. [Ed. Note: Yes, I realize this is in contradiction with the above paragraph.] The theory is that the mild sedative effect eases anxiety, and that mucous reduction allows the inner ear to dry out, thus relieving cochlear pressure.
An antihistaminic used in the prevention and treatment of nausea and motion sickness. This is an over-the-counter (USA) anti-vertigo drug. While it is obviously relevant to the severe vertigo that comes with Meniere's, there was one anecdotal report submitted to this FAQ by a tinnitus sufferer who did not have vertigo but took meclizine to successfully reduce his tinnitus.
Dimethyl sulfoxide, a colorless hygroscopic liquid obtained from lignin, used as a penetrant to convey medications into the tissues.
Article Abstract - DSMO Alternative |
| Ask your doctor to review the following article, Annals of the New York
Academy of Sciences 75:243:468:74. 'In this study,15 patients were suffering
from tinnitus. Every four days 2 milliliters of a medicated DMSO solution
containing anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory compounds were applied locally
to the external auditory canals of their ears. They were also given an
intramuscular injection of DMSO at the same time.
'After one month, 9 of the 15 patients had a total cessation of the tinnitus and it didn't return during the one year observation period. It was diminished in two others and in the remaining four it became only an occasional problem instead of permanent (cold temperatures seemed to be the main factor causing it to return). 'In addition, all of the five patients that were suffering from vertigo noted significant improvement...' |
The following is an anecdotal report concerning vinpocetine, a drug that is NOT registered in the United States. A search of the Physician's Desk Reference and several CD-ROM databases turned up nothing on the drug or its manufacturer. Be skeptical, but also remember that some of today's wonder drugs were once new and unregistered.
Anecdotal Report Concerning Vinpocetine |
| A prominent American tinnitus researcher states that, "Vinpocetine shows
high promise." Judge for yourselves.
contributor (not the researcher) statement follows: I started taking vinpocetine (a nootropic drug available mail-order from Europe) a couple months ago, and my tinnitus (due to listening to a walkman for the entire eighties) is now almost gone. Occasionally the tinnitus will re-occur, but I think that's due to what I happen to be eating (or not eating) that day, as the FAQ states. In short, vinpocetine cured what I thought was incurable, and made me a whole-lot happier -- especially since I'm in the music industry and depend on my ears. From what I understand, vinpocetine repairs damaged nerve cells, among other things. There are no side effects -- you don't notice anything while taking it except that you may remember things better, and your tinnitus may improve. "VINPOCETINE: A side effect free synthetic derivative of vincamine. Vinpocetine is three to four times as potent as vincamine at improving cerebral circulation and overall is OVER TWICE as potent as vincamine in humans. Vinpocetine has wide ranging effects and can be used to improve memory, treat stroke, menopausal symptoms, macular degeneration, impaired hearing and tinnitus. The usual oral starting dose is 1-2 tablets three times daily, to be followed by a maintenance dose of 1 tablet three times daily for a longer period of time. Vinpocetine has not been reported to interact with other drugs and may be used in combination." -- 'Recommended Dosages' sheet from Interlab. You can order vinpocetine by sending a letter to Interlab asking for an order form. Currently, vinpocetine is US$26 for 100 tablets. For Canadians, you can only order a three month personal supply at a time. For Americans, you may need a doctor's prescription, and can only order a three month personal supply at a time. Call your government's "Customs" agency, or "Food and Drug" administration to be sure.
Interlab |
Anecdotal Report Concerning Vinpocetine |
| A different contributor has this interjection to make about Interlab:
Interlab is not a reputable source. They are a "black" organization that
has shipped bogus drugs, and they routinely ignore complaints. They use greeting
cards to ship drugs into the US (which is very reliable) and people either
love their service or hate it, depending on whether or not they have had
a problem that Interlab will not remedy.
How did you find out about vinpocetine? Did you explicitly try it for tinnitus, or was it for some other condition and the tinnitus cure was an unexpected side-effect? Did a doctor recommend it to you? I read about it in a document regarding drugs that the FDA won't approve because they don't consider the problem the drug cures important enough (such as tinnitus.) It was on the net somewhere -- I don't have it. I got it specifically for tinnitus. A doctor didn't recommend it -- I "prescribed" it to myself. I have a degree is psychology, so I'm not completely in the dark as to its effects. The literature from the manufacturer almost has that "too good to be true" ring to it. Have you ever seen any other literature on this drug that didn't come from the manufacturer? Nothing really substantial, except personal reports from people who say it works with them. Do you have any info regarding undesirable side-effects or toxicity levels? Non-toxic at any level, no side-effects. It's available OTC (Over The Counter) in Europe and South America. It is not available in North America because drug laws stipulate that a drug has to cure an existing condition before it can be approved. I guess tinnitus isn't a real problem to them. The only way we can find out if it really works is if several people try it and report back. I doubt tinnitus is something that placebo response can overcome, and I'm sure that if other peoples tinnitus was as annoying as mine, they'll jump at the chance to try vinpocetine. |
Anecdotal Report Concerning Vinpocetine |
| In a quick review of the medline literature I did not find any papers
dealing with vinpocetine and tinnitus, but did find some with information
I will share....I found some information in the merck index as well as in
two articles on vinpocetine-side effects in the Journal of the American Geriatics
Society ..JAGS 35:425(1987); 37:515(1989).....
VINPOCETINE mode of action...cerebral vasodilator used to treat cerebral dysfunction resulting from reduced blood flow....in addition has other complex metabolic actions..."In humans, the effect on cerebral blood flow is not certain, with some investigators reporting no change, while others report an increase". It has been reported that vinpocetine can be used safely to treat patients with "chronic cerebral dysfunction of vascular origin". The drug is not without some side effects but these.. "were mild and not considered to be of a serious nature". These papers also discussed the concentration of drug administered to groups of patients in controlled studies...There was mention made in the 1989 paper that vinpocetine was under investigation in the US assessing its value in patients with multi-infarct dementia... The information that vinpocetine helps some people that have tinnitus is at the moment anecdotal...as one with tinnitus, I certainly would approach self treatment very conservatively....I take niacin for my hypercholesteremia and haven't noticed any change in the ringing...I would be willing to take lecithin and ginko but I don't think I will attempt vinpocetine until I am sure of its efficacy....most of the people with tinnitus do not have cerebral dysfunction!... I can also appreciate trying anything to reduce the discomfort of tinnitus...please be cautious when it comes to the use of drugs...as we know evenniacin in excess is potentially harmful....Smart Drugs Nutrients, Dean Morgenthaler, 1991, Health Freedom Publications, ISBN 0-9627418-9-2, has this to say about vinpocetine and vincamine: "Vinpocetine is a powerful memory enhancer. It facilitates cerebral metabolism by improving cerebral microcirculation (blood flow), stepping up brain cell ATP production (ATP is the cellular energy molecule), and increasing utilization of glucose and oxygen. Vinpocetine is often used for the treatment of cerebral circulatory disorders such as memory problems, acute stroke, aphasia (loss of the power of expression), apraxia (inability to coordinate movements), motor disorders, dizziness and other cerebro-vestibular (inner-ear) problems, and headache. Vinpocetine is also used to treat acute or chronic ophthalmological diseases of various origin, with visual acuity improving in 70% of the subjects. Vinpocetine also is used in the treatment of sensorineural hearing impairment. Vinpocetine is a derivative of vincamine, which is an extract of the periwinkle. Although they have many similar effects vinpocetine has more benefits and fewer adverse effects than vincamine. Precautions: Adverse effects are rare, but include hypotension, dry mouth, weakness, and tachycardia [Ed. Note: this is excessively rapid heartbeat, which can be FATAL. I do not consider that to be "very safe"]. Vinpocetine has no drug interactions, no toxicity, and is generally very safe. Vincamine is an extract of the periwinkle. It is a vasodilator and increases blood flow to the brain and improves the brain's use of oxygen. |
Like vinpocetine, vincamine is not directly available in the United States. For a list of mail-order suppliers of these and other "smart drugs", send US$2.00 to the address below and request the Smart Drug Sources List:
Cognition Enhancement Research Institute
P.O. Box 4029
Menlo Park, CA 94026-4029
USA
Smart Drugs & Nutrients is also available from CERI: It is now 5 years since SD&N was published and it is getting hard to find in many bookstores in many areas of the country. For those who can't find it locally, they can get it from CERI for $12.95 plus $3 for Priority Mail shipping. If they mention the Tinnitus FAQ, we will include the Smart Drug Sources listing for free.
Another "smart drug", for which Dean & Morgethaler say: "Hydergine is reported to increase mental abilities, prevent damage to brain cells from insufficient oxygen (hypoxia), and may even be able to reverse existing damage to brain cells [Ed. Note: Call me skeptical].
Hydergine is an extract of ergot, a fungus that grows on rye. Midwives in Europe traditionally used ergot with birthing mothers to lower their blood pressure. Researchers at the pharmaceutical giant Sandoz analyzed ergot in the late 1940s, looking for blood-pressure medications. Of the thousands of compounds that researchers found in ergot, three were combined and tested for their anti-hypertensive properties. When studies with elderly people uncovered cognition-enhancing effects, Sandoz began spending a great deal of research money on Hydergine. It is now one of the most popular treatments for all forms of senility in the U.S., and is used to treat a plethora of problems elsewhere in the world.
Hydergine probably has several modes of action for its cognitive-enhancement properties. Its wide variety of reported effects include the following:
Hydergine is available in the United States with a doctor's prescription. It is also available from overseas sources, as one contributor explains: Hydergine is widely used in France, and it is cheap there. One person told me that you can get 5 mg Hydergine tablets there for less than the price of 1 mg in the US. If contacts can be made directly with French pharmacists sympathetic to the use of the higher European dosages in the US, mail-order access might be arrangeable for US tinnitus people.
Hydergine has not been proven in rigorous scientific tests to be effective for tinnitus reduction.
A colorless crystalline salt used in the fluoridation of water, in the treatment of tooth decay, and as an insecticide and a disinfectant. May be helpful when the tinnitus is due to cochlear otosclerosis.
A drug that causes vasodilation (dilation of a blood vessel). Vasodilators like niacin, gingko biloba, and prescription drugs for hypertension increase blood flow inside the skull, raising the oxygen available for good nerve health. But note that vasodilation cannot benefit the cochlear hair cells, as the blood vessel (vas spralie) which feeds these cells cannot expand or contract. Furthermore, vasodilation may not always be helpful, as explains one FAQ contributor: A few years ago, physicians started treating some forms of stroke, especially TIA's, with vasodilators. The theory was that, with dilation, more blood could flow to the starved areas. A later study showed that, in many cases, the vasodilators made the condition worse. The reason was that dilation increased flow to non-damaged areas and robbed damaged areas of even more blood.
By extrapolation, one could conclude that tinnitus related to vascular damage could be made worse with vasodilators. I have no data to back this extrapolation up, but it does seem reasonable.
A substance or drug that tends to increase the discharge of urine. Diuretics may be prescribed when Meniere's Disease is present. One contributor reported tinnitus relief from Dyazide. But be aware that some diuretics are ototoxic and can worsen or even cause tinnitus.
The symptoms of Meniere's Disease can be ameliorated somewhat by betahistine hydrochloride. It is sold, but alas, not in the United States, under a host of names. It should NOT be taken by anyone pregnant or lactating, by children, anyone with an adrenal tumor (pheochromocytoma), bronchial asthma, or peptic ulcers. Possible side effects are nausea, gastric distress, headache, rash.
It is not always effective, but if it is, relief is provided for 6 to 12 hours on the standard dosage of 24-48 mg per day. It is believed to reduce pressure in the inner ear, and perhaps improve the blood flow to the small blood vessels there.
Betahistine hydrochloride is sold in Canada under the trade name "SERC", and is distributed by Solvay Kingswood, Inc, Scarborough, Ontario, M1B 3L6 for Unimed, Inc.
Anecdotal Report Concerning SERC |
| I have suffered from Meniere's disease for 21 years. I've had endolymphatic
sac and 8th vestibular nerve surgeries on my left ear during the last 5 years.
Starting in September '95, my right ear, which previously had been fine,
began ringing loudly. The hearing in the right ear declined dramatically.
My doctor tried a course of steroids to no effect. It looked like I was going
to be deaf within a year.
A friend of mine found your tinnitus FAQ file and mailed it to me. I reviewed its contents with my doctor. He referred me to another doctor who is more familiar with homeopathic and other alternative treatments. This doctor encouraged me to try SERC, which is not available in the US. I got an appointment with a Canadian doctor in Windsor, Ontario. I started using SERC (one 4mg pill three times per day) on April 20, 1995. Seven days later, nothing had improved so I increased the dosage to two 4mg pills three times per day (as the doctor said I could). Two days later the right ear ringing stopped completely and hasn't returned!!! I stayed on that dosage for a month. I've now cut back to 2mg three times a day and the ringing has not returned as of 7/30/95. There were no side effects from the SERC at any of the dosages I've tried. I have my life back. My left ear works pretty well with a hearing aid. My right ear has full normal hearing. I have no side effects from the SERC. (By the way, SERC is cheap. 100 4mg pills cost me about $18.) I'm happy to share my story with anyone. My name is Ken Cornell. Phone is: 313-878-0809. E-mail: cordley@ismi.net Please add this to your FAQ and keep up your good work. Your efforts have saved my hearing. All my friends, family, work associates and I thank you VERY much.
Addendum: September 2, 1996 "I had a relapse in September, 1995, because the maintenance dosage of 2mg three times per day was too low. I increased my dosage to 8mg three times per day for 10 days to get rid of the tinnitis. I changed my maintenance dosage to 4mg three times per day in October of 1995 and have been fine ever since." |
Some research on caroverine is being done in Austria:
Dr. Doris Maria DEINK c/o
Universitiftsklinik flir Hals-Nasen-Ohrenkrankheiten
Vorstand: Univ.Prof.Dr. Kehrenberger
Allgemeines Krankenhaus der Stadt Wien
1090 Wien, Wahringer Gurtel 18-20
Telephone: 011-43-1-426355
Correspondence Regarding Caroverine |
September 9, 1994 Dear Mr. Berger, Referring to your letter of August 1994, 1 am writing to give you some informations, about our tinnitus treatment with Caroverine. As you already know, the treatment with Caroverine is indicated in cases of cochlearsynaptic tinnitus. Therefore, a thorough ENT and audiological examination is necessary before therapy to rule out other tinnitus causes. If necessary, the diagnostic measurements should also comprise brainstem audiometry. As far as I know, Caroverine is not available as a registered drug in the United States. Therefore, I do not know any collegue who uses this substance in tinnitus treatment. Caroverine is a commercially available drug in Austria (Spasmium-R), Switzerland and Japan. In Austria, Spasmium-R has been used as a spasmolytic drug for nearly 30 years. I am enclosing some information about Spasmium-R. Caroverine is a Quinoxaline - derivative. It is produced by DONAU-PHARMAZIE-CEHASOL Ges.m.b.H., A-1230 VIENNA, AUSTRIA. You can get further informations about the availability of Spasmium-R from: PHAFAG AG, Im Bretscha 29,FL-9494, SCHAAN, LIECHTENSTEIN FAX 05/075/232 19 93. For tinnitus treatment, Caroverine is applied as slow intravenous infusion (2 ml per minute). The dosage of Caroverine differs from patient to patient and depends on the tinnitus reduction achieved in the individual patient. When the tinnitus is reduced, the infusion is stopped. At maximum, 160mg Caroverine (4 ampules) are given in 100ml physiologic saline solution. Until now, we have not observed any severe side-effects. In some patients, a slight transient headache or dizziness occured. I hope that our informations will help you a little.
With best wishes for you, |
Correspondence Regarding Caroverine |
Jan.23, 1993 The symptom tinnitus may be due to various causes. Therefore, an exact audiological examination is absolutely necessary. The tinnitus therapy with transmitter antagonists can influence a special form of tinnitus - the so called cochlear synaptic tinnitus. It is caused by functional disturbances in the synapse between the inner hair cells and the afferent dendrites of the auditory nerve. By intravenous application of transmitter antagonists (e.g. GDEE, Caroverine) the synaptic function can be improved and the tinnitus reduced. All other forms of tinnitus cannot be reduced by transmitter antagonists. The substances we use for therapy of cochlear synaptic tinnitus are GDEE (Glutamic acid diethyl ester) and Caroverine. GDEE is not a registered drug and is only available upon special request by the clinic. The substance is produced by "FLUKA Biochemie, Industriegasse 25, CH-9479 BUCHS, Switzerland). GDEE has to be lyophilised in order to be effectful. Now we are mainly using Caroverine. This substance is a registered drug in Austria (SpasmiumR) and known for its spasmolytic effect. At the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery in Washington in September 1992 I reported about our results. Now we are preparing a publication. I am enclosing some information about our therapy (including papers about the theoretical basis). In your case the tinnitus etiology seems to be noise. If in addition to the mechanical damage of the inner ear a functional disturbance is present, there is a chance to influence the tinnitus. If you like to come to Vienna for therapy, please contact me to fix a date. I would propose a date at the beginning of March. If I can be of any further assistance, please let me know.
Yours sincerely, |
This dual receptor system is responsible for a typical pattern of depolarization, which can be shown in microiontophoretic animal experiments. Under pathological conditions, spontaneous receptor-dependent depolarization patterns mimic sound-induced patterns, which are perceived as tinnitus. On the basis of these considerations, we use the specific Quisqualate antagonist glutamic acid diethyl ester (GDEE) for therapy of cochlear synaptic tinnitus to normalize the synaptic function. We have treated 130 patients by intravenous application of GDEE. In 77.2% of the patients, tinnitus was reduced by more than 50% in absolute values of sound intensity. The indications, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, as well as methods of subjective and objective evaluation of the therapeutic effect, will be discussed.
Correspondence Regarding Carbogen |
| From: govaerts@uia.ua.ac.be (Paul.Govaerts) To: Sigeroo@aol.com Dear Mr Segal ....The problem of acoustic trauma is completely different from a large vestibular aqueduct or even a sudden deafness. In acoustic trauma there is both physical lesion of the hairs of the hair cells and biochemical lesion of the auditory neurons because of toxicity of the excitatory neurotransmittor that is involved. (Ref Prof Pujol, Montpellier, France). The tinnitus and vertigo and I guess also the hearing loss result from these lesions. It has been shown that these cells may have a good potential for recuperation and possibly also for regeneration (ref Van De Water, Bronx, NY and Lefebvre, Liege, Belgium). By administering vaso-active drugs and carbogen inhalation, a massive peripheral vaso-dilation is triggered, bringing huge amounts of oxygen and nutrients to these damaged cells. Although one has not been able to demonstrate superior effect of vasoactive drugs to placebo, carbogen has never been really studied. And I have several cases with sudden deafness (including after acoust or baro-trauma) who were not responding to vasoactive drugs and who responded spectacularly to carbogen, even when given several weeks after the injury. Unfortunately this treatment has no success when given too late, since there is no more potential for regeneration.... Yours,
Paul Govaerts, MD, MS. |
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| What vitamins are available for treating tinnitus? |
A crystalline acid that is a component of the vitamin B complex and is used to treat and prevent pellagra (a disease caused by niacin deficiency and characterized by skin eruptions, digestive and nervous system disturbances, and eventual mental deterioration).
Niacin supplements produce a temporary flushing effect that is supposed to pump more oxygen into the inner ear due to vasodilation. Take niacin on an empty stomach for best results. You may experience a flush ranging from a mild sunburn to wondering about spontaneous skin combustion. ;-) You may also experience a "dry mouth" sensation.
MEGADOSES OF NIACIN CAN DESTROY YOUR LIVER AND KILL YOU. 50mg twice per day is a common dose for tinnitus. If you experience the flush, then you are getting the maximum benefit. Caution: niacin can provoke migraine headache attacks in some people. Some people report good results from niacin, other people gain nothing. Your mileage may vary.
One contributor advocates taking niacin in combination with thiamine: The 1994 text on Myofascial Pain: Trigger Points said that Niacin without Thiamine will do no good for tinnitus. I don't recall the reasoning. Nicotinic Acid (a form of Niacin) if taken in over 500mg per day should only be done so with Dr. approval. I take 100mg per day with a B-complex vitamin that already is balanced properly. You want roughly two parts niacinamide for each one part thiamine. Most vitamins will come balanced in this proportion.
To my knowledge Nicotinic Acid in large doses like 2-5mg per day over a year or so, could lead to liver damage. Niacinamide shouldn't have any negative effects nor should thiamine. But I suppose if someone swallows a bottle they'd have a side effect! There is no clinical proof for the effectiveness of niacin in treating tinnitus. This is inherently difficult to prove due to a possible "placebo effect" arising from the niacin flush sensation rather than any therapeutic value of the underlying vasodilation. Additionally, any vasodilation that occurs cannot benefit the cochlear hair cells, because the blood vessel (vas spralie) that feeds these cells cannot expand or contract.
Any of a group of phospholipids that on hydrollysis yield two fatty acid molecules and molecule each of glycerophosphric acid and choline. They are found in nervous tissue, especially myelin sheaths and egg yolk, and in the plasma membrane of plant and animal cells.
The following anecdotal report advocates lecithin in combination with niacin [Ed. Note: my nutrition book does not cover lecithin, so I cannot speculate as to toxicity and side-effects].
Antecdotal Report Concerning Lecithin |
| After reading the tinnitus faq I emailed to my father, he replied that
he has helped a number of people cure their own tinnitus by using Niacin
and Lecithin. His theory is that the lecithin, being an emulsifier, helps
disperse the build up of fats in the capillaries, and the niacin helps dilate
the capillaries to let the lecithin in.
He had meier's [sic - Meniere's?] syndrome in the 70's, and cured it this way. Our neighbor, a police officer, retired on disability for the same reason, and Dad practically cured him that way. I got tinnitus as a result of childhood ear infections, and it has done nothing for me, but then, mine is not what I would call irritating. It does seem that after chelation, the noise is less. |
The cochlea has the body's greatest concentration of zinc. Supplements of 90-150 mg per day may be beneficial in some cases. BUT BEWARE: high levels of zinc interfere with the body's absorption of copper, leading to anemia. Several studies have identified the 150mg dosage as leading to toxicity problems. Zinc therapy when prescribed by physicians is often accompanied by frequent blood tests to monitor copper levels. Zinc has not been formally tested for the treatment of tinnitus.
Magnesium Prevents Hearing Loss: 300 young healthy male military recruits undergoing two months of basic training were studied. The trainees were repeatedly exposed to high levels of impulse noises. Each recruit received daily either 167 mg of magnesium (as magnesium aspartate) or a placebo (sodium aspartate). Permanent hearing loss was significantly more frequent and more severe in the placebo group than in the magnesium group.
Attias J, Weisz G, Almog S, Shahar A, WienerM, et al. Oral magnesium intake reduces permanent hearing loss induced by noise exposure. Am J Otolaryngol 1994;15:26-32.
COMMENT: Hearing loss is a common problem, particularly among older individuals. Although there are many causes, repeated exposure to excessive noise is one key factor. Many people do not realize how much noise pollution we are subjected to on a daily basis, from the steady hum of home appliances to the roar of trucks and autos. People who live in large cities face a constant bombardment with potentially damaging noise. Studies in animals have shown that noise exposure causes magnesium to be lost from the body. Perhaps supplementing with a little magnesium might prevent all of that noise from damaging your hearing.
Nutrition and Healing, November 1994, p.8
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| What herbs are available for treating tinnitus? |
Gingko Biloba
Gingko biloba leaves have been used therapeutically by the Chinese for centuries for the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. In western countries a standardized 50:1 concentrate of 24% gingko flavoglycosides is used, either in liquid or capsule form. Gingko has been shown to increase circulation throughout the body and the brain. The article "Ginkgo biloba", The Lancet, Vol 340, Nov 7, 1992, pp. 1136-1139, examines numerous studies on the efficacy of ginkgo on intermittent claudication (pain while walking), and cerebral insufficiency, a wide collection of vascular impairment symptoms including tinnitus. Typical dosages range from 120-160mg per day, divided equally at meal time. Most studies showed that between 30-70% of subjects had reduced symptoms over a 6-12 week period. No serious side effects were observed, and any minor side effects were not statistically significant compared to subjects treated only with placebo. Other references on gingko biloba: As to tinnitus, Hobbs in reference (1) says: For example, in 1986 a study statistically proved the effectiveness of treatment with ginkgo extract for tinnitus: the ringing completely disappeared in 35% of the patients tested, with a distinct improvement in as little as 70 days!(2) Similarly, when 350 patients with hearing defects due to old age were treated with ginkgo extract, the success rate was 82%. Furthermore, a follow-up study of 137 of the original group of elderly patients 5 years later revealed that 67% still had better hearing(3).
References
Abstract of a Recent Audiology Paper on Ginkgo Biloba |
| Holgers KM; Axelsson A; Pringle I Ginkgo biloba extract for the treatment of tinnitus. Department of Audiology, Sahlgren's Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden. Language: Eng Source: Audiology 1994 Mar-Apr;33(2):85-92 Unique Identifier: 94234927 Abstract: Previous studies have shown contradictory results of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) treatment of tinnitus. The present study was divided into two parts: first an open part, without placebo control (n=80), followed by a double-blind placebo-controlled study (n=20). The patients included in the open study were patients who had been referred to the Department of Audiology, Sahlgren's Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden, due to persistent severe tinnitus. Patients reporting a positive effect on tinnitus in the open study were included in the double-blind placebo-controlled study (20 out of 21 patients participated). 7 patients preferred GBE to placebo, 7 placebo to GBE and 6 patients had no preference. Statistical group analysis gives no support to the hypothesis that GBE has any effect on tinnitus, although it is possible that GBE has an effect on some patients due to several reasons, e.g. the diverse etiology of tinnitus. Since there is no objective method to measure the symptom, the search for an effective drug can only be made on an individual basis. |
Abstract of a Recent Audiology Paper on Gingko Biloba |
| I searched the medline for your using PHYSICIANS ON LINE software, from
1988 to present obtained the following:
Remacle J, Houbion A, Alexandre I, Michiels C [Behavior of human endothelial cells in hyperoxia and hypoxia: effect of Ginkor Fort] Laboratoire de Biochimie Cellulaire, Facultes Universitaires N.D. de la Paix, Namur, Belgique. Phlebologie 1990 Apr-Jun;43(2):375-86 Article Number: UI91046351 ABSTRACT: Recent discoveries have shown that venous diseases have a multifactorial etiology. One of the factors which is definitely involved in this pathologic process is the change in the concentration of oxygen. An increase in the concentration of oxygen, hyperoxia, or reoxygenation following hypoxia, damages the tissues by stepping up the production of free radicals. In addition, a reduction in oxygen concentration, or hypoxia, is also damaging, probably through a reduction in ATP synthesis. From a therapeutic standpoint, the veins, and more particularly the endothelium, must be protected against the impact on the tissue of these changes in oxygen concentration. In this study, the effects of Ginkor Fort were tested on cultured endothelial cells subjected to varying oxygen pressures. The results show that Ginkor Fort can provide good protection of endothelial cells against hyperoxia and hypoxia-reoxygenation. These beneficial effects are probably due to the presence of flavonoids in the gingko biloba extract; these flavonoids have an anti-oxidant effect. In addition, this substance also protects the cells against hypoxia, possibly by increasing the availability of oxygen for ATP synthesis. This dual protective effect, which is produced by two different mechanisms, may account for the wide spectrum of Ginkor Fort in its use in venous diseases. |
| top of page | Treatment Possibilities |
| What other treatments are available for tinnitus? |
For tinnitus caused by acoustic neuromas, vascular abnormalities, and TMJ syndrome. But note above in the Causes section that tinnitus, hyperacusis, or even profound deafness can result from ear/skull surgery. maintain a healthy diet lifestyle This means no tobacco, no alcohol, no caffeine, low fat, low sodium. This may not cure your tinnitus, but there are other well-proven health benefits. Other less obvious foods like quinine/tonic water should also be avoided. If your dietary intake isn't sufficiently diverse, consider supplements:
My research work during the past ten years has been on health and nutrition, and I can see that use of some dietary supplements would be a rational approach to ameliorating tinnitus. More than half of our population is at least slightly deficient in all of the B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and perhaps copper and iron. Since folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 are critical for tissue repair and organ regeneration, it would be a very good idea to consider supplementing the daily diet with these. In addition, our diets are deficient in essential elements, including calcium, magnesium and zinc. Calcium is necessary for the action of about 500 enzymes, while magnesium is required by about 400 enzymes. All of these are interlinked in a system that is active 24 hours a day. Just supplementing the diet with one will not be completely effective if others are lacking. I think that the first step for anyone who wants to be really healthy, with ability to efficiently repair tissue and organ damage, should examine the diet critically to find deficiencies, then make sure that all of the essential elements and vitamins are present in greater than minimal amounts. Supplements make very good sense if approached this way.
Useful as a stress reduction tool, biofeedback may help some people.
*****[comments from someone who's been there?]*****
May provide temporary relief to some people. One contributor reports significant relief that enabled him to avoid the heavy-duty anti-depressants that his Western physician had prescribed.
Stress Reduction
Many people say their tinnitus is more active when they're tired and stressed out. Get a good night's sleep and avoid unnecessary stress.
Some people with severe tinnitus may benefit from hearing aids that bring normal speech sounds above the background tinnitus sounds. In addition to amplification, hearing aids may be useful as maskers when they also introduce white noise into the sound stream.
There is anecdotal evidence of help for tinnitus through cranial sacral therapy by osteopaths and chiropractors.
Various electrode placements with various vol frequencies may provide some relief. External, ear canal, transtympanic, middle ear, and cochlear electrodes have all been tried. Side effects may include pain, and alterations to sense of ssmell. In one study of electrical stimulation on the round window, 3 out of 5 patients experienced some relief when frequencies of 40 Hz or less were applied.
An Eighth Nerve section is the treatment of last resort. You will be totally deaf. But beware - if your tinnitus originates somewhere inside the brain, you will be totally deaf AND still have tinnitus. A prominent American tinnitus specialist says this surgery should never be done for tinnitus, since he knows of patients whose tinnitus INCREASED to suicidal levels afterward.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
This treatment is supposed to be beneficial when the tinnitus is thought to be due to a lack of oxygen for the hearing mechanism. It may be more effective for recent onset cases rather than long-term ones. [Ed. Note: this treatment is not without risk; at one such center in my community that treats Alzheimer's patients, the door seals on the chamber failed, resulting in an explosive decompression that injured several patients.]
Antecdotal Report About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy |
| One poster to alt.support.tinnitus has this to say about the therapy:
Following is a summary (my own words) of an article which recently appeared
in the "MAINZER ALLGEMEINE ZEITUNG" describing a new method treating tinnitus
with pure oxygen under high air pressure (hyperbaric oxygen treatment - in
short "HBO" treatment).
PLEASE NOTE: I cannot in any way guarantee the validity of the information given in that article. The same is true for my interpretation of the article's information and my summarzing it (I tried to be as close as I could). Using this info is at the reader's own risk. SUMMARY starts: A doctor's practice in Duesseldorf (no further details mentioned) uses a submarine-like tube (6 meters in length) which is a similar device as used for treating divers who have suffered a diving accident or patients with carbon monoxide poisoning or having had a "hearing infarct" (could not find the right English word !). Such "Oxygen Therapy Centers", mostly stationary ones, do exist at various other locations in Germany, mainly hospitals. Twelve tinnitus patients can be accomodated in Duesseldorf at the same time. Treatment is comparable to a dive to 15 meters depth of water while breathing pure oxygen. Consequently, treatment starts with air pressure in the tube being raised slowly within 20 minutes. Pure oxygen is supplied to each patient via oxygen mask. Treatment lasts for two hours. Depressurization at the end lasts somewhat longer than 20 minutes. An experienced professional diver is accompanying the patients during treatment to assist them if they have problems due to climbing or falling air pressure. Newspapers and headphones are provided to help avoid boredom during the two hours treatment. Ten consecutive treatments are offered, one each day. Cost: 300 DMarks (about just below $ 200.-) per treatment. HBO treatment is offered to patients who often have been suffering from tinnitus for years with no other traditional treatments having helped (like infusions, blood circulation improving medicine, etc). -- Health insurance normally does not cover the HBO treatments. They may consider taking part of the bill, however, in specific cases, e.g. if classical tinnitus treatment methods have been used unsuccessful. Traditional medicine has not found a general treatment method for tinnitus so far. The theory behind the new HBO treatment is based on the assumption that tinnitus is caused mainly by oxygen supply shortage in the inner ear organs. Studies at Munich Technical University have shown that pure oxygen treatment under high air pressure can increase oxygen saturation in the inner ear up to 500 %. In the USA and in the former Soviet Union this method reportedly has been used extremely successfully for many years. Alone in Moscow are about 40 pressure chambers in use. (No further details for either country). Cure from tinnitus through the new therapy cannot be guaranteed, according to the doctors. The article closes with a statement of one doctor: "I can hardly *promise* anything." SUMMARY end ! So much for the article. I hope I could understandably relay what it said. No information has been supplied in the article about success rates or the like. -- I hope this information is of some help. If some co-sufferer has tried the HBO treatment his comments would certainly be very welcome. |
A poster to alt.support tinnitus reports about a therapy involving listening to a series of electronically-produced tinnitus noises: This may be old news to some readers, but perhaps many others might be interested. A very interesting paper by L. P. Ince, et al appeared in the journal Health Psychology in 1987, A matching-to-sample feedback technique for training self-control of tinnitus.
Article Abstract - Feedback Therapy |
Ince and his colleagues worked with 30 individuals suffering from tinnitus,
and used a "matching-to-sample" feedback procedure. Each subject's tinnitus
sounds were reproduced electronically and played into either one ear (for
those with single-side T) or both ears. The sound was then reduced by 5 dB
during each session. The subject was asked to "think" their tinnitus sounds
down to match the signal that was supplied. No instructions were provided
as to how to do this...each subject just tried the best he or she could.
Each trial lasted 60 seconds, with 30 second rests between trials. If the
tinnitus was brought down to the lower level during any one trial, the subject
was then supplied with the electronically-produced sound that was lowered
by an additional 5 dB, otherwise the same signal was provided. A total of
15 trials were run each session (so, less than one half hour overall for
the session). Subjects went through 3 to 12 of these sessions.
Almost all of the 30 subjects experienced a reduction in their tinnitus. One subject completely eliminated the tinnitus in 3 sessions. By the end of the experiment, eight subjects eliminated the tinnitus. One subject who had had tinnitus for 30 years reduced the level from 40 to 10 dB. The subjects' tinnitus at the start varied greatly in quality and loudness and had varied greatly in the duration since onset. This experiment showed that many people could be trained to "not hear" their tinnitus. This was not just a case of the subjects' being less bothered by the sounds, but actually reducing the sound levels. This was shown by playing random sound levels for the subjects who indicated when the sound level matched their tinnitus. I wrote Dr. Ince in 1991. He replied that he was not a tinnitus specialist and had ceased his studies. However, he was very willing to aid professionals who wished to try to replicate his results. He also informed me that it is not possible to reproduce his study with standard household electronic equipment (such as tapes), and only trained audiologists should try to do such a study. Dr. Ince's study reminded me of an interesting question I once heard asked about tinnitus: Why doesn't *everyone* hear wild noises? The blood going through the inner ear creates vibrations that are FAR greater than even fairly loud sounds outside the ear. Perhaps we all have trained our brains to ignore such sounds. A prominent American tinnitus specialist says that Ince's work was a "misleading dead end". |
Auditory Integration Training (AIT) was originally developed by a French doctor named Alfred Tomatis. Another French doctor who was seeking a cure for his tinnitus (the crickets he kept hearing everywhere he went) received Dr. Tomatis's training. Dr. Guy Berard was so fascinated by the cure that he studied it and modified the treatment. The original Tomatis auditory training is still available today. It involves many hours of listening therapy, sometimes on the magnitude of hundreds of hours of therapy.
Dr. Berard's auditory training method is ten total hours of treatment. The treatment involves listening to music that has been altered such that the high frequencies and low frequencies are randomly shifted in and out. The sessions are 30 minutes in length given twice a day (treatments separated by four hours) for 10 days. Some practictioners opt to run the program in two consecutive weekday blocks while others run the program through the weekend. The music ranges from Gordon Lightfoot to reggae. It sounds distorted.
The Berard method of AIT is described in Dr. Guy Berard's book, Hearing Equals Behavior. The method was brought to the United States in the early nineties by Annabel and Peter Stehli whose daughter recovered from autism after receiving AIT in France. Their daughter's story is documented in Annabel's book, The Sound of a Miracle. Because of the Stehli's affiliation with autism, AIT is used heavily by persons with autism and hyperacusis although Dr. Berard has used AIT mostly for learning disabilities, tinnitus, and depression.
There are two different devices that are capable of delivering Berard AIT: the audiokinetron, which was developed by Dr. Berard, and the BGC which is designed and manufactured in the United States. Research has not shown any difference in results according to which machine delivers the AIT.
The preparation for AIT usually involves an audiogram to look for hypersensitive hearing. A normal audiogram should be nearly flat (all frequencies heard equally well) but sometimes a person may have an audiogram that resembles a mountain range. If a person shows extreme sensitivity to particular frequencies, then filters may be used during AIT to eliminate those frequencies from the training. However there is some feeling that by filtering out certain frequencies the randomization of AIT is reduced and perhaps the effectiveness is reduced.
There is no scientifically proven theory explaining why AIT works. It may be that the stimulation of the middle ear acts and physical therapy for the ear. Since each frequency stimulates a different area of the cochlea, it may be that the broad range of frequencies evens out the cochlear response to sound.
Once a person has undergone AIT, they should not listen to music through headphones as it may undo the training. Other factors that have been known to reverse the benefits of AIT have been high fevers (meningitis), general anesthesia, exposure to loud sounds, and headphone use for music. Listening to voices (story tapes or language tapes) is acceptable.
AIT treatments do not work on those with hyperacusis and can actually worsen the condition - particularly the tinnitus, because it is administered at uncomfortably loud sound levels.
For further information on AIT:
AIT organizations:
The Georgiana Organization
P.O. Box 2607
Westport, CT 06880 USA
+1 203 454-3788
A packet on AIT as well as a list of AIT practitioners trained by the Georgiana Organization.
Autism Research Institute
4182 Adams Ave.
San Diego, CA USA
A packet on AIT which includes research papers published by Steve Edelson, Ph.D.
Society for Auditory Integration Training
Center for the Study of Autism
Boardwalk Plaza, Suite 230
9725 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy
Beaverton, OR 97005 USA
+1 503 643-4121
SAIT (Society for Auditory Integration Training) is dedicated to the enhancement of the quality of life for individuals with special needs through auditory integration training. The purpose or goal of SAIT is to establish policies, minimum training and equipment standards and guidelines for all AIT practitioners, and to promote a professional image. SAIT's objectives are: Promote professional and ethical standards for AIT; Set procedural standards; Promote networking and sharing of information; Advise and evaluate research on the efficacy of AIT.
SAIT does not promote any single method of AIT (Berard, BGC, or other). They will provide you objective information about many issues concerning Auditory Integration Training (research, age recommendations, after-care, etc.) and answer frequently asked questions. They maintain a list of persons trained in both the Berard and BGC methods of AIT.
The SAIT Newsletter is published quarterly and is full of information on AIT. Associate membership ($30) is open to anyone interested in AIT. Professional memberships (reserved for practitioners who had passed the examination for SAIT certification and who had the appropriate educational backgrounds) have been temporarily suspended pending FDA approval of the Audiokinetron and other AIT devices. Currently a Practitioner membership is open to practitioners who have been trained by an "approved" instructor. No certification of these members will take place.
The recent FDA investigation of AIT has interrupted SAIT's efforts to certify practitioners and to insure the ethical and professional practice of AIT. Once the Audiokinetron and other AIT devices receive FDA approval, SAIT will recommence its original mission. Currently SAIT's first priority is to provide practitioners and families with information about the current status and pressing issues of AIT. The newsletter will focus on research, legal advice and other noteworthy news. A supplemental paper on a related topic will also be distributed on a quarterly basis to its members; such topics will include sensory integration, visual training, and hearing anomalies.
Sound therapy originates from the work of Dr. Alfred Tomatis. The following is quoted from a flyer entitled Tinnitus, Vertigo, and Sound Therapy, published by Sound Therapy Australia, P.O. Box E237, St. James, N.S.W. 2000 (this organization sells books and cassette tapes for this therapy):
Article Abstract - Sound Therapy |
The electronic ear used in the recording of Sound Therapy challenges the ear with constantly alternating sounds of high and low tone. At the same time, low frequency sounds are progressively removed from the music so the ear is introduced to higher and higher frequencies. The result is a complete rehabilitation of the ear, improving the tone and responsiveness of the middle ear muscles. Once the ear is able to recognise and admit high frequency sounds to the inner ear, this creates the opportunity for the sensory cells in the inner ear to be stimulated and restored to their upright, receptive position. Meniere's vertigo Dr. Tomatis has proposed that Menieres vertigo which produces attacks of dizziness is also due to an anomaly in the tension of the stirrup muscle. This muscle may be subject to involuntary twitches, like any other muscle in the body. Such twitching would radically alter the fluid pressure in the inner ear chambers, thus causing havoc with the balance mechanism. The re-toning of the stirrup muscle achieved by Sound Therapy frequently resolves this condition.
The initial results of a listener survey conducted by Sound Therapy Australia [Ed. note: not exactly unbiased] indicate that 96% of tinnitus sufferers who perservered with the listening felt they benefited from the therapy. Of these, 20% said the tinnitus stopped completely, and 36% experienced a reduction in the sound. The other 44% experienced other benefits such as improved sleep and reduced stress, which made the tinnitus easier to bear. |
Hypnotherapy has been reported by Dr. Kevin Hogan, who is a registered Clinical Hypnotherapyst, to be showing remarkable results for tinnitis sufferers.
Dr. Hogan says, (in regard to a April , 95 release of a study by Mason, J, Rogerson, D, Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, UK., which stated, in part: ....
"therapy for their tinnitus....68% showed some benefit for their tinnitus ...32% showed no evidence of improvement for their tinnitus"....) ..."This confirms previous research in the use of hypnotherapy to reduce the volume and distress of tinnitus. The best controlled study I have on hand shows 74% efficacy"....
Antecdotal Report Concerning Homeopathic Remedies - Cell Salts |
| I am a big believer in homeopathic cell salts. They have help me tremendously
in coping with the high input-output life of a drummer. I perform approximately
12-15 hours a week, full blast, which could take its toll (I'm 42) if I wasn't
taking care of myself.
For tinnitus, Kali Phos and Mag Phos for the nerves, Kali Mur for any swelling in the inner ear. If I take the remedy before retiring for the night, the symptoms are greatly relieved by morning, and always within 48 hours. These are generic names. There are several manufacturers, notably Scheussler's Cell Salts (the guy who invented them back in 1905), and Boiron out of France; Standard Homeopathy here in the U.S.; all of which are usually available in most health and nutrition stores. You cannot overdose on homeopathic remedies, they are very cheap ($5 for 150 doses), and extremely effective, especially on acute conditions. |
| For example, take a look at following article in The Journal of the American
Dental Association (JADA):
Tinnitus improvement through TMD therapy Edward F. Wright, D.D.S., M.S.; Sandra L. Bifano, Ph.D. Many patients with temporomandibular disorder and coexisting tinnitus find that therapy improves or resolves their tinnitus in conjunction with their TMD symptoms. Ninety-three patients with TMD who reported having coexisting tinnitus were questioned and given clinical tests. These assessment instruments were then evaluated for their ability to suggest tinnitus improvement as a result of TMD therapy. This study suggests that asking targeted questions and performing a clinical test could be of significant value in helping practitioners identify which patients with TMD and coexisting tinnitus will experience improvement in, or resolution of, their tinnitus when TMD symptoms have improved significantly. For the complete article, see the October issue 1997 of The Journal of the American Dental Association, page 1424. http://www.ada.org/adapco/jada/9710/j-06.html contributed by Hans Lennros (hans.lennros@swipnet.se) |
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