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[Evaluation of the possible ototoxicity of josamycin by high frequency audiometry]
J Doménech1, M A Cuchí, J Fusté
1Catedra de O.R.L., Facultad de Medicina (Hospital Clinic), Universidad de Barcelona.
Abstract:
Josamycin is an antibiotic macrolide similar to erythromycin, with some differences in its biologic behaviour. There have been no reports of ototoxic effects caused by this drug, but its similitudes with erythromycin have prompted us to undertake a study about its possible cochleo-toxicity. Most trials of this kind have been carried out using conventional audiometry (up to 8,000 Hz), thus not being able to detect threshold shifts above this frequency. Ototoxic lesions usually begin in the upper frequency limit. Twenty-eight patients without previous auditory impairment were studied with conventional (up to 8,000 Hz) and high-frequency audiometry (up to 20,000 Hz) before and after oral treatment with josamycin during eight days. No significant differences were found in auditory thresholds registered before and after treatment in any of the patients. These results suggest that josamycin is devoid of any cochleo-toxic effect in all the frequencies that a normal subject can hear.
Insights
Josamycin, an antibiotic macrolide, was studied for potential hearing damage. High-frequency audiometry revealed no significant cochlear toxicity in patients after an eight-day treatment course.
Area of Science:
- Ototolaryngology
- Pharmacology
- Audiology
Context:
- Josamycin is a macrolide antibiotic, structurally similar to erythromycin.
- Erythromycin has been associated with ototoxic effects, necessitating investigation into josamycin's safety.
- Previous studies lacked high-frequency audiometry, potentially missing early signs of cochlear damage.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the potential cochlear toxicity of josamycin.
- To assess auditory thresholds using both conventional and high-frequency audiometry.
- To determine if josamycin causes hearing impairment at higher frequencies.
Summary:
- Twenty-eight patients without prior hearing issues received oral josamycin for eight days.
- Audiometric assessments were conducted before and after treatment, including frequencies up to 20,000 Hz.
- No significant changes in auditory thresholds were observed, indicating no cochlear toxicity.
Impact:
- Josamycin appears to be safe regarding cochlear function at clinically relevant frequencies.
- This study provides evidence supporting the safety profile of josamycin in audiological terms.
- Highlights the importance of high-frequency audiometry in detecting drug-induced ototoxicity.