NeuroMed Tinnitus Program — Founded by Dr. Hamid Djalilian

[BuzzyBee]

They've suggested topiramate, but I haven't heard good things about it. If the theory behind this treatment makes sense to you, it might be worth trying it based on your own experience rather than relying solely on others' feedback.

I'm waiting to hear if anyone has had any positive results from Topiramate, but after searching the entire internet, all I find are reports of it making tinnitus much worse.

There's also a new migraine rescue drug called Ubrelvy. I wonder if Ubrelvy, known for its fast-acting relief, could help reduce a tinnitus spike. I haven't seen it listed in any NeuroMed protocols. On a migraine forum, someone did mention it seemed to lower their tinnitus, but I've only found that single report.

 

[Nick47]

I'm waiting to hear if anyone has had any positive results from Topiramate, but after searching the entire internet, all I find are reports of it making tinnitus much worse

Hi @BuzzyBee,

When I watched Dr. Hamid Djalilian's webinar, he shared some preliminary graphs and data from his latest study, which is yet to be published.

I noticed that the combination of Paroxetine and Verapamil had a responder rate of around 72%, compared to 52% for Nortriptyline and Topiramate. There was also a third control group included in the study.

There is literature indicating that L-type calcium channels play a role in many cases of tinnitus, and Verapamil targets these channels. Given concerns about the side effects of Topiramate, Verapamil could be a possible alternative. However, it is contraindicated for patients with a resting heart rate below 60, as it can lower the heart rate slightly. This makes it unsuitable for athletes or individuals with naturally low heart rates.

The treatment protocol Dr. Djalilian recommends follows a "multimodal" approach rather than relying on single supplements or medications. As we've learned from 50 years of research, single treatments often have limited effects due to the involvement of numerous ion channels and neurotransmitters.

 

[BuzzyBee]

I personally would avoid the combination of Paroxetine and Verapamil because of side effects I know I couldn't handle, but it's interesting that they are targeting specific calcium channels.

A multimodal approach is essential! I'm glad they are including CBT, sound therapy, and various supplements to support people who are new to tinnitus or who, unlike many of us, haven't already tried or become somewhat familiar with these methods.