Effect of salicylates on gentamicin ototoxicity in humans

ABSTRACT

Reports showed a protective effect of salicylates, when given in low doses, against Gentamicin-induced ototoxicity in animals. The aim of the present study was to test this contention in humans. The study included 30 patients recruited from the chest department. Fifteen patients served as control and took Gentamicin, for 10 to 14 days. The study group included 15 patients taking the same dosage of Gentamicin in addition to aceryl salicylic acid. Audiologic evaluation was done in the form of pure tone audiometry, transient-evoked and distortion product [DP] oto-acoustic emission. The evaluation was done before the start of therapy and immediately after its cessation. In the study group, salicylates resulted in significant protection of outer hair cells against gentamicin-induced ototoxicity, which was manifested by the following 1-Improved reproducibility of the transient emissions, although levels of emission decreased. 2-Increased DP peak levels. 3-Improved DP thresholds. 4-Increased DP levels-at-thresholds. The study recommended the use of salicylates as an adjuvant to Gentamicin to reduce the latter's ototoxic effects