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Updated: May 8, 2026

Neuro-rehabilitation Approach for Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Published on: January 25, 2016
Methadone induced sensorineural hearing loss
Chadi Saifan1, Daniel Glass, Iskandar Barakat
1Department of Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital, 475 Seaview Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305, USA.
Methadone overuse can cause sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). One case report details persistent hearing loss in a patient restarted on methadone after an overdose, highlighting a rare but serious side effect.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Toxicology
- Neurology
Background:
- Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a known complication of opiate abuse.
- Previous reports primarily linked SSHL to heroin or hydrocodone/acetaminophen.
- Emerging evidence suggests methadone may also induce SSHL.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of SSHL following methadone overdose.
- To investigate the persistent effects of methadone on hearing.
- To contribute to the understanding of methadone-induced ototoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 31-year-old male patient.
- Documentation of SSHL after methadone overdose.
- Audiometry assessments before and after methadone reintroduction.
Main Results:
- Patient developed bilateral, moderately severe SSHL post-methadone overdose.
- Hearing loss persisted despite restarting methadone at a regular dose.
- Unlike most reported cases, this patient did not achieve full hearing recovery.
Conclusions:
- Methadone overuse is a rare but potential cause of SSHL.
- Persistent hearing impairment can occur even after dose normalization.
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring auditory function in patients with methadone exposure.
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