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Profound hearing loss associated with hydrocodone/acetaminophen abuse
R A Friedman1, J W House, W M Luxford
1House Ear Clinic, Inc., Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA.
The American Journal of Otology
|March 25, 2000
Summary
Hydrocodone overuse can cause rapidly progressive hearing loss. Cochlear implantation offers successful rehabilitation for patients with this drug-induced hearing impairment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Hydrocodone, a commonly prescribed opioid analgesic, is often combined with acetaminophen for pain management.
- While its side effect profile is generally understood, specific associations with ototoxicity have not been widely documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between hydrocodone overuse and profound hearing loss.
- To evaluate the efficacy of cochlear implantation in rehabilitating patients with this condition.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 12 patients with rapidly progressive hearing loss and a history of hydrocodone overuse.
- Analysis included audiometric data and post-cochlear implantation outcomes.
Main Results:
- Hydrocodone overuse was associated with rapidly progressive sensorineural hearing loss in all 12 patients.
- Seven of eight patients who underwent cochlear implantation showed early success.
- No patients experienced hearing improvement with high-dose prednisone treatment.
Conclusions:
- Hydrocodone overuse can lead to a previously undescribed form of rapidly progressive sensorineural hearing loss.
- Cochlear implantation is a viable and successful rehabilitative option for these patients.
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