ConsumerLab on Supplements to Treat Tinnitus

Hi All:

ConsumerLab just posted this Q&A. Nothing new, really. (Please note that, while I often refer to ConsumerLab, I have no affiliation with the company!)

Question:
Do any supplements help for tinnitus? Is it true that some supplements can cause tinnitus?

Answer:
A number of supplements are promoted for tinnitus, or ringing in the ear, but only a couple are supported by clinical evidence. Two clinical studies suggest that pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) may improve blood flow to the inner ear and reduce symptoms of tinnitus. Melatonin has also been found to reduce symptoms in some, but not all, studies, as well as increase the effectiveness of a drug prescribed for tinnitus, and improve sleep in people with the condition.

Some studies have found deficiencies in vitamin B-12 and zinc are common in people with tinnitus, however, supplementation has not been found to be helpful for improving symptoms (Berkiten, B-ENT 2013; Coelho, Otol Neurotol 2013).

Ginkgo biloba and CoQ10 are sometimes promoted for tinnitus, although there is little evidence that these are helpful. Similarly, the supplement Lipo-flavonoid® is often touted for this use, but this appears to be based on very weak, dated evidence.

Although not very common, tinnitus has been reported as a side effect of stimulant dietary supplements for weight loss. Toxic levels of vitamin D and/or calcium have also been reported to be associated with tinnitus, although there does not appear to be any clinical research confirming this.

-Golly

 

I wish people would stop wasting their money on supplements they take for things they aren't even deficient for.

Supplement have not been shown to do anything at all in a majority of cases. Hell not even Vitamin C helps against the common cold.

 

What drug?

 

Did you read this page?
http://www.audiologyonline.com/articles/20q-dietary-supplements-for-tinnitus-13916

Sulodexide... http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19589291