Treatment of Tinnitus With Olanzapine

Treatment of Tinnitus With Olanzapine: A Randomized Crossover Versus Placebo Study

This research aims to evaluate the effects of the drug olanzapine on the discomfort caused by tinnitus according to each patient's personality traits. Olanzapine is a drug used as an antipsychotic whose mechanism of action makes it potentially useful for the treatment of tinnitus.

Patients will be evaluated through a standard history and otorhinolaryngological examination. Questionnaires will be used to assess tinnitus (Tinnitus Handicap Inventory) and personality (Neo Pi-R), and audiological examinations will be performed (pure-tone and vocal audiometry and immittance testing). All procedures aim to understand the impact of the disease on the patient's life, and audiological examinations aim to analyze the patient's hearing. To perform the procedures and examinations and monitor the treatment schedule, the patient will be required to attend the outpatient clinic monthly. The procedures and examinations do not pose any risk or physical discomfort to the interviewee.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjective, non-pulsatile tinnitus of at least 6 months' duration
• Stable tinnitus symptoms over the past 3 months
• Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
• Age between 18 and 70 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active psychiatric disorders requiring pharmacological treatment
• History of psychotic illness or bipolar disorder
• Current use of antipsychotics, antidepressants, or anticonvulsants
• Severe hearing loss (threshold ≥ 80 dB in both ears)
• Substance use disorders
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Known hypersensitivity to olanzapine
• Significant medical conditions (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, hepatic impairment)