What Researchers Did
Researchers reported on an 8-year-old child who experienced sudden hearing loss, loss of balance, tinnitus, and ear fullness after starting methylphenidate therapy.
What They Found
They found that an 8-year-old patient developed total hearing loss in her left ear, along with loss of balance, tinnitus, and ear fullness, immediately after her first dose of methylphenidate. Despite receiving oral corticosteroids and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the hearing loss remained irreversible.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients prescribed methylphenidate should be aware of the rare but serious potential side effect of sudden hearing loss. Patients experiencing any sudden changes in hearing, balance, or ear sensations after starting this medication should seek immediate medical attention.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was conducted in another country.
Study Limitations
As a single case report, this study's findings cannot be generalized to the broader patient population.