Xeomin Injections for Tinnitus
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether Xeomin injections (incobotulinum toxin A) can reduce the ringing in the ears caused by tinnitus, a condition affecting many people. Researchers aim to assess the effectiveness of these injections using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory survey. The study includes two groups: one receiving the actual injections and another receiving a placebo (a harmless solution with no active treatment). The trial seeks participants who have experienced tinnitus in one or both ears for more than two months and find it significantly impacts their daily life. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important findings.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have received botulinum toxin injections in the last 4 months, you cannot participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that incobotulinum toxin A, also known as Xeomin, is generally safe for people. The FDA has approved it for conditions like cervical dystonia (a neck muscle disorder) and blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking). Studies have found that most people using Xeomin for these conditions experience only mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site or temporary muscle weakness. No strong evidence links the treatment to serious side effects, suggesting it is well-tolerated. However, individual experiences with any medical treatment can vary.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for tinnitus?
Most treatments for tinnitus focus on masking the noise or using hearing aids and sound therapies to manage symptoms. However, incobotulinum toxin A, used in the Xeomin injections, works differently by targeting the auricular muscles directly. This approach is unique because it uses a neurotoxin to potentially reduce the perception of tinnitus through muscle relaxation. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a new mechanism of action that could provide relief for patients who haven't found success with traditional therapies.
What evidence suggests that Xeomin injections might be an effective treatment for tinnitus?
Research has shown that Xeomin, a form of botulinum toxin A, might help reduce tinnitus symptoms by affecting the muscles around the ear. In this trial, participants in the Incobotulinum toxin A group will receive three serial injections of incobotulinum toxin A into the auricular muscles. One study found that 7 patients experienced improvements in their tinnitus symptoms after receiving botulinum toxin A, while only 2 patients improved with a placebo. This suggests that Xeomin might help lessen the constant ringing sound some people hear. Additionally, scores from the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, which measures how tinnitus affects daily life, improved after using botulinum toxin A. These findings suggest that Xeomin could be a promising option for tinnitus relief.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephanie Standal, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Minnesota
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) lasting more than 2 months and a significant impact on their life, as measured by a score above 16 on the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory. It's not for those allergic to botulinum toxin, who've had botulinum injections within 4 months, have an infection at the injection site, upcoming ear-related surgeries, major psychiatric conditions or are pregnant/breastfeeding.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive three serial injections of incobotulinum toxin A or placebo into the auricular muscles
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- incobotulinum toxin A
- Placebo-Saline
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Minnesota
Lead Sponsor