Current treatments for tinnitus

Abstract

Objective: Explore tinnitus treatment approaches. Bibliographic review: Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source, impacting public health and correlating with depression. Medications (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, melatonin) show some effectiveness in reducing tinnitus severity, but their efficacy is uncertain. Non-pharmacological therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) hold promise in managing symptoms. CBT targets cognitive and behavioral aspects, while TRT combines sound therapy and counseling for habituation. Cochlear implant and stapes surgeries also improve tinnitus perception. Neuromodulation techniques (e.g., transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation) are being explored, but research is needed for efficacy confirmation. Final considerations: Effective treatment options are crucial for tinnitus patients' quality of life. Pharmacological approaches (e.g., antidepressants, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants) offer potential, although efficacy is uncertain. Non-pharmacological treatments like CBT, TRT, cochlear implantation, stapes surgery, and transcranial magnetic stimulation show promise in reducing tinnitus severity and improving well-being.