Information counselling during treatment with ototoxic medications for TB: a call to action

The introduction of bedaquiline (BDQ) has reduced the reliance on ototoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides) for drug-resistant TB (DR-TB). This has significantly reduced ototoxic symptoms, such as tinnitus and dizziness, which often precede irreversible hearing loss. However, aminoglycosides remain ess...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: K. Khoza-Shangase, S.M. Arendse
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: The Union 2025-03-01
Series:Public Health Action
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Online Access:https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/iuatld/pha/2025/00000015/00000001/art00001
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Summary:The introduction of bedaquiline (BDQ) has reduced the reliance on ototoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides) for drug-resistant TB (DR-TB). This has significantly reduced ototoxic symptoms, such as tinnitus and dizziness, which often precede irreversible hearing loss. However, aminoglycosides remain essential for some extensively drug-resistant individuals with TB (XDR-TB) who are resistant to BDQ. In South Africa, there is a lack of adequate awareness of the potential ototoxic effects of aminoglycosides. The increasing prevalence of XDR-TB has, therefore, intensified the need for comprehensive information counselling. We call for a proactive role for audiologists in providing early, structured information counselling for these individuals.
ISSN:2220-8372