AOS MEETING: Rapid Hearing Loss Observed With Overuse Of Vicodin [View All]

AOS MEETING: Rapid Hearing Loss Observed With Overuse Of Vicodin

LOS ANGELES, CA -- April 26, 1999 -- Researchers report that significant hearing loss is associated with abuse of Vicodin™, which combines the drugs hydocodone and acetampinophen, according to the results of a study presented April 25 at the annual meeting of the American Otological Society, held on April 24-25, at the Marriott’s Desert Springs, Palm Desert, CA.

The combination of hydrocodone and acetampinophen is used commonly to alleviate pain presents side effects similar to other habit forming medications and has the potential for inciting physiologic dependence and tolerance with repeated use. Additional symptoms related to overdose include respiratory depression, hypotension and coma.

Deafness resulting from narcotic overuse is a rare occurrence. In the past, there have been no reports of progressive hearing loss occurring as a result of overdosing hydrocodone or acetaminophen. However, Los Angeles ear, nose, and throat specialists have found that when both agents are combined and overused, hearing loss can occur and can progress to total hearing loss.

The primary objective of this retrospective study was to describe rapid and progressive hearing loss in patients taking Vicodin and to achieve successful rehabilitation with cochlear implantation. The research was carried out by Rick A. Friedman MD PhD, John W. House MD, William M. Luxford MD and Dawna Mills, from the House Ear Clinic, Los Angeles, CA, and Stuart Gherini MD, in private practice in Sacramento, CA.

The researchers recruited nine women and three men with an average age of 42 years with a range of 32 to 54 years. Each of the patients underwent extensive otologic history and physical examination to identify factors that may have caused the hearing loss. The tests included behavioral audiograms, a serological evaluation to rule out predisposing illness such as autoimmune disease, and extensive radiological testing with high-resolution temporal bone computed tomography or enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.