[Low-molecular-weight hydroxyethyl starch or low-molecular-weight dextran in acute inner ear disorders? A randomized...

In two independently conducted randomised studies, the therapeutic effects of the low-molecular weight plasma expander dextran 40 (Thomaedex 40) and 6% hydroxyethyl starch 40/05 (Expafusin) in cases of sudden deafness and acute acoustic trauma were compared. No significant differences were observed regarding hearing gain and alleviation of tinnitus. The measured hearing gains corresponded to those reported for dextran in the literature. Hydroxyethyl starch has the advantage that there is no need to take preventive steps against allergies, but is expelled more rapidly than dextran by the body with simultaneous deposition of minimal quantities in the liver. For the time being, the main factor affecting the decision between these two substances will be their sales price.