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Quinine induces reversible high-tone hearing loss
R J Roche1, K Silamut, S Pukrittayakamee
1Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, England.
British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Quinine treatment for malaria temporarily reduced high-frequency hearing in all patients. This hearing loss was rapid, often unnoticed, and fully reversible after completing the medication.
Area of Science:
- Ototoxicity and pharmacology
- Infectious diseases and tropical medicine
Background:
- Quinine is a primary treatment for acute falciparum malaria.
- Potential ototoxic effects of quinine require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of quinine on auditory acuity in patients with acute falciparum malaria.
Main Methods:
- Serial audiometry was conducted on ten patients undergoing quinine treatment.
- Audiograms were analyzed to evaluate changes in auditory function.
Main Results:
- Quinine administration led to a reduction in high-tone auditory acuity in all participants.
- Audiograms showed a characteristic flattening, indicating hearing loss.
- Tinnitus was reported by seven patients, but the hearing impairment was generally unnoticed.
- Auditory function returned to baseline levels after cessation of quinine treatment.
Conclusions:
- Quinine-induced hearing impairment is a common, transient side effect.
- Monitoring auditory function during quinine therapy is advisable.
- The ototoxic effects of quinine are reversible upon treatment completion.