The Effect of Alprazolam on Acoustic Stapedius Reflex Thresholds in Healthy Volunteers

Abstract

Alprazolam, a widely used drug, has widespread, nonspecific depressant effects on the central nervous system, similar to other benzodiazepines. This inhibitor effect may cause changes in reflex thresholds by affecting the acoustic stapedial reflex (ASR) arc. This study was performed on 31 healthy volunteers. Initially, the basal ASR thresholds were measured and measured again 2 h after oral intake of 1 mg of alprazolam; by measuring the reflex thresholds once again the mean values of thresholds before and after the drug were compared. Only the left ipsilateral and contralateral 2,000 Hz increases were significantly different. The left ipsilateral and contralateral 500, 1000, and 4000 Hz, and the right ipsilateral and contralateral 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz measurements showed no differences. Although an increase in ART thresholds was generally observed after the intake of alprazolam, it was not significant. Its use in healthy adults does not statistically produce an additional risk of acoustic trauma at most of the frequencies, but its use with the agents potentiating the effect of alprazolam may increase this risk.

Effects of thiocolchicoside, a commonly used myorelaxant, on the acoustic reflex

“…The statistically significant increases observed in the present study, especially in the left ipsilateral and contralateral thresholds and at the high frequencies (2000–4000 Hz), show that thiocolchicoside has a minimal effect on the acoustic reflex. These findings are in line with the results of Ozturk et al 13 . Further extensive investigations are required to provide results with greater objectivity.…”

“…A recent study investigated the effects of alprazolam, an anxiolytic drug, on the acoustic reflex by comparing the acoustic reflex thresholds prior to and following medication 13 . There was a statistically significant increase only for the left ipsilateral and contralateral thresholds.…”

“…The absence of similar studies in the English-language literature precluded a comparison of our data with other studies. However, many published studies confirm that muscle relaxants used in general anaesthesia have suppressive effects on the central nervous system and may suppress the acoustic reflex 13 16 Therefore, muscle relaxant drugs, especially those affecting the central nervous system, could be anticipated to weaken the stapedial muscle.…”