Experimental, clinical and preventive aspects of ototoxicity.

Ototoxicity is an important clinical problem and accounts for a significant proportion of sensorineural hearing loss in some parts of the world. Ototoxicity is predominantly an iatrogenic condition. However, with proper dosing, prudent monitoring of serum levels of ototoxic medications and serial audiometry, ototoxicity can be prevented. A number of the more common ototoxic medications, including aminoglycosides, erythromycin, loop diuretics, salicylates, cisplatin, deferoxamine and ototopical agents, are outlined in this review. Their pharmacology, mechanisms of action and methods of preventing complications are discussed together with animal and clinical studies.