Nicotine gum tested as hearing aid for aging ears

NCT ID NCT04971954

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, Irvine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study is testing whether a single dose of nicotine gum can reverse age-related hearing problems. Researchers will give 48 healthy non-smokers aged 18-85 either nicotine gum or a placebo and measure their hearing and brain responses. The goal is to see if nicotine can improve how the brain processes sound, which might lead to better treatments for hearing loss.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: nicotine gum
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to improve hearing in older adults.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-stage study with only 48 people. Nicotine is addictive and can have side effects like increased heart rate. The results may not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

auditory perceptual disorders Auditory perceptual impairment

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AGING AUDITORY PERCEPTUAL IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hearing and Speech Lab
RECRUITING

Irvine, California, 92697, United States

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