TITLE:
Lipoflavonoid Benefits in Patients with Tinnitus
AUTHORS:
Lori E. Lonczak
KEYWORDS:
Lipoflavonoid, Bioflavonoid, Tinnitus, Ringing
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery,
Vol.10 No.3,
May
10,
2021
ABSTRACT: Background: Otolaryngologists are regularly presented with patients experiencing tinnitus who are seeking treatment to help with resuming active and productive lives. Lemon bioflavonoid complexes are known to be safe nutritional supplements; however, data on patient satisfaction are limited. Objectives: The primary objectives were to better understand symptom severity reduction, symptom improvement, and patient satisfaction when lemon bioflavonoid complexes are taken at the recommended dose and duration of treatment. Methods: The SILENT experience study was conducted from January 2017 to January 2018, with 504 otolaryngologists from six states, identified from a purchased list. Each physician provided a free, 500-caplet sample of Lipo-Flavonoid®, a lemon bioflavonoid complex, to three patients who experienced tinnitus and completed a survey detailing patient demographics and symptoms. In total, 719 patients received the sample; 51 patients followed through and completed a baseline symptom assessment and five surveys over 10 weeks. IRB approval was deemed unnecessary and the study was overseen by a practicing otolaryngologist. Statistical analysis was conducted on the reduction of symptom severity and symptom improvement over 10-weeks. Results: Bothersomeness of ringing or other noises in the ear(s) was reduced by 32% and patients reported a 55% improvement of all symptoms, which correlated with product satisfaction. Patient satisfaction scores were strong: 33% extremely satisfied, 49% somewhat satisfied, and 18% not satisfied. Compliance was high, with 86% of participants taking the product as directed for 60 days. The top reasons for physician recommendations (selected by >30%) were positive clinical experience (71%), good safety profile (66%), supported by data for over 50 years (37%), and efficacy (35%). Implications for Practice: These data support the use of this lemon bioflavonoid complex for symptoms of tinnitus, for 60 days (and beyond for those who derive benefit) to provide the best chance of relief. For clinicians looking for a safe and beneficial intervention for patients, lemon bioflavonoid complexes offer a good first-line option.