Hear, Hear: No Negative Effects of Isotretinoin on Hearing

Hearing actually improved in isotretinoin users.

Can isotretinoin treatment of acne affect hearing? Defects in hearing and tinnitus have been reported with use of this drug, and two studies showed subclinical changes. To study the subject further, researchers examined hearing in 15 male and 23 nonpregnant female patients with moderate-to-severe nodulocystic acne. Patients with history of hearing problems, ear surgery, middle-ear disease, and other problems known to affect hearing were excluded. Before treatment and after weeks 1, 2, and 3, patients underwent audiometric tests of the ability to hear pure tone, speech, high-frequency sounds, and tests of ipsilateral and contralateral acoustic reflexes.

Subjects received oral isotretinoin at 0.50 to 0.75 mg/kg/day for at least 3 months. Thirt…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)