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Dexamethasone palmitate: A promising intratympanic treatment option for severe sudden hearing loss

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Dexamethasone palmitate (DXP) is a lipophilic, esterified corticosteroid with sustained-release properties that may provide advantages over conventional water-soluble dexamethasone in intratympanic therapy for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). We report the safety and clinical outcomes of intratympanic DXP injection in three patients with profound SSNHL. All patients also received systemic steroids and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, along with six sessions of intratympanic DXP. Two patients demonstrated substantial improvement in hearing thresholds and speech discrimination within 3 months, whereas one patient who presented late showed no recovery. No adverse effects, such as pain, inflammation, or tympanic membrane complications, were observed. The increased viscosity and lipophilicity of DXP likely enhance cochlear drug delivery and prolong therapeutic retention. These findings suggest that DXP is a safe and potentially effective intratympanic option for SSNHL, particularly when administered early.

Source: American Journal of Otolaryngology

DOI: 10.1016/j.amjoto.2025.104766

Author: Joong Ho Ahn

Institutions: Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan

Language: English

Topic: Vestibular and auditory disorders

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,630