A Comparative Study of the Effectiveness of Anticonvulscants in the Treatment of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is defined perception of an audiological sensory impulse in the absence of any external force. There are various causes considered for the pathophysiology of tinnitus but none are established. Carbamazepine is a commonly used anti-epileptic drug that functions by depressing the CNS response to excitatory stimuli. Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter throughout the central nervous system and is also expressed in the inner ear. Piracetam is a commonly used anti-epileptic that is known to increase cerebral blood flow and perfusion. Methods: A group of 80 patients were evaluated by taking a detailed history and a subjective assessment of the tinnitus using Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Questionnaire. The patients were followed up for 3 months and were assessed with Pure Tone Audiometry both pre and post treatment to evaluate which drug is better. The patients were randomized into 3 groups and one control group. Each group consisted of 20 patients. Results: The study consisted of 46 males and 34 females. A significant difference was seen when the results of group A and C were compared with p-value 0.00512, 0.00512 and 0.0083 and U value 0, 0 and 1 showing improvement from severe to moderate, moderate to mild and mild to normal. A comparison of group A and D showed a significant change from severe to moderate, moderate to mild and mild to normal with p-value 0.00512, 0.00512 and 0.0512 respectively and U values 0, 0 and 0 respectively. Conclusions: In our study, we concluded that use of Piracetam helps in reducing tinnitus and the treatment should continue as long it persists. Thus, Piracetam and Gabapentin are effective as a modality of treatment in suppressing tinnitus according to this study. We hope that our outcomes will be helpful for patients suffering from chronic tinnitus.