Are Medications Effective in Managing Tinnitus?: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this project was to evaluate the claims and efficacy of medications marketed towards tinnitus relief for adult humans. The information presented in this literature review provides insight to clinicians regarding medications that have been trialed in adults to treat tinnitus.Methods: This literature review was conducted following steps modeled after Cronin et al. (2008). Articles were identified using the following online databases: PubMed, Ovid, the University of Arizona’s online library and a review of reference lists from excluded Cochrane reviews, systematic reviews, and surveys that were identified during the search process. Results: This review identified 19 articles that fit the search criteria. These articles were categorized into the following nine drug classifications: anticonvulsive/antiepileptic, benzodiazepines, vitamins/minerals/antioxidants/herbals, anesthetics, antagonist drugs, vasodilators, antidepressants, anti-inflammatories/corticosteroids, and anticoagulants/antithrombotic. Conclusions: Future research is needed to validate the effectiveness of the medications reviewed in this project. Treatment approach for tinnitus is complex as tinnitus is multifaceted. Without the exact knowledge of etiology and mechanisms involved, treatment results for tinnitus are unpredictable. Starting or stopping any medication is not recommended without a physician’s approval.