Turmeric Can Prevent Cochlear Damage Due To Ototoxic Drugs

Abstract

Introduction: The high use of ototoxic drugs, especially antibiotics such as aminoglycosides and anticancer drugs such as cisplatin still can not be avoided as a therapeutic option. The use of ototoxic drugs can cause damage to the cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals leading to hearing loss and balance disorders. Results: Our previous study has found that curcumin extracted from turmeric ( Curcuma xanthorriza ) is capable of preventing damage to the cochlea in the rat models of diabetes mellitus (DM) and noise-induced at the level of molecular biology (protein level) through the decreased apoptotic index, oxidant status, and increased antioxidant status. Cochlear damage due to ototoxic drugs can occur through the similar pathways, thus we have a strong hypothesis that the cochlear damage due to ototoxic drugs may also be prevented by curcumin. Conclusion: If it is proven in animal studies, the study could be tested on humans (clinical trials) so that curcumin can be used as a herbal medicine to prevent hearing loss. Keywords: curcumin; ototoxic; cochlea; hearing loss.