Enhancing the therapeutic potential of intravenous glycerol for Meniere's disease: Robust results from an extensive patient cohort

Abstract

IntroductionMeniere's disease (MD) is an idiopatic condition characterized by recurrent attacks of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness, affecting quality of life. Intravenous glycerol has shown potential as a therapeutic option. This study evaluates its efficacy in a larger patient cohort. Materials and methodsRetrospective study with 168 patients having unilateral MD unresponsive to dietary restrictions. Intravenous 10 % glycerol with 0.9 % sodium chloride was administered for six months. Audio-vestibular assessments and questionnaires were used. ResultsSignificant improvements in vertigo control observed. 7.1 % achieved complete control, and 58.3 % had substantial control. Quality of life measures improved, and audiometry thresholds remained unchanged. No major adverse events reported. DiscussionIntravenous glycerol effectively controlled vertigo and improved MD patients' quality of life. Limitations include lack of a control group and a relatively short-term follow-up. Future prospects include randomized controlled trials and optimization of treatment protocols. ConclusionIntravenous glycerol shows promise as a therapeutic option for MD, with notable improvements in vertigo control and quality of life. Further research is needed for validation and optimization.