Straightforward Information About Tinnitus
Many people with tinnitus wonder whether dietary supplements might help. The supplement industry markets heavily to tinnitus sufferers, often with bold claims. Here is an honest look at what the research actually shows.
Ginkgo biloba is the most widely marketed supplement for tinnitus. It is thought to improve blood circulation, including to the inner ear. However, the largest and most rigorous clinical trials have found no significant benefit over placebo for tinnitus. A Cochrane Review (a gold-standard systematic review) concluded that the evidence does not support the use of ginkgo biloba for tinnitus.
Zinc plays a role in cochlear function, and some studies have found that people with tinnitus have lower zinc levels. A few small trials have shown improvement in tinnitus among zinc-deficient patients who received supplementation. However, for people with normal zinc levels, supplementation does not appear to help. A blood test can check your zinc status if you are curious.
Magnesium is involved in nerve function and has been studied for noise-induced hearing loss prevention. Some evidence suggests it may have a protective effect against noise damage when taken before or shortly after exposure. Its role in treating existing tinnitus is less clear, though it is unlikely to cause harm at recommended doses.
Vitamin B12 deficiency has been associated with tinnitus and hearing loss in some studies. If you are B12 deficient (which is more common in older adults and vegetarians/vegans), supplementation may help. For people with normal B12 levels, supplementation has not been shown to improve tinnitus.
Lipoflavonoid is a branded supplement containing bioflavonoids that has been marketed for tinnitus for decades. Despite its long history, there is minimal quality clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness. The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery does not recommend it.
Melatonin is not a tinnitus treatment per se, but several studies suggest it may help with the sleep disturbance that commonly accompanies tinnitus. See Tinnitus and Sleep.
Dietary supplements are not regulated with the same rigor as prescription drugs. Claims made on supplement labels are not required to be proven in clinical trials. Be skeptical of products that promise to "cure" or "eliminate" tinnitus. If you choose to try a supplement, discuss it with your doctor first, especially if you take other medications.