Hearing loss pill tested on police officers fizzles out

NCT ID NCT04774250

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested whether the epilepsy drug zonisamide could prevent hearing damage in police officers after shooting range training. Only 3 people enrolled before the study was stopped early. The goal was to see if the drug could reduce hearing loss measured by hearing tests and ear sound emissions.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

zonisamide

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a pill that protects hearing after sudden loud noise, like gunfire.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early with only 3 participants, so results are very limited. Zonisamide is an epilepsy drug and may cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

noise induced hearing loss

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Akron

    Akron, Ohio, 44325-3001, United States