The effect of topically applied antimycotic agents on inner ear vestibular and cochlear function.

Objectives/hypothesis: To assess and compare the effect of commonly used topical antimycotic agents and their solvents on the function of the vestibular and cochlear parts of the sand rat's inner ear.

Study Design: Prospective, controlled, animal study.

Methods: Forty-five fat sand rats were randomly assigned to five major groups, each receiving topical application of a different agent: saline (control), gentamicin (ototoxic control), and three antimycotic agents: nystatin, clotrimazole solution (Agisten), and bifonazole solution (Agispor).

Furosemide administered before noise exposure can protect the ear.

Objectives: We assessed the effect of furosemide administration on noise-induced hearing loss. This drug reversibly elevates the auditory threshold by inducing a temporary reduction of the endocochlear potential and thereby suppresses the cochlear amplifier and active cochlear mechanics.

Methods: Mice were given a single injection of furosemide 30 minutes before exposure to 113 dB sound pressure level broadband noise.