Adverse Effects of Prednisone on Audiovestibular Symptoms

Introduction to Adverse Effects

• The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery recommends prednisone 1 mg/kg/day (maximum 60 mg daily) for 10-14 days as standard treatment for sudden hearing loss, which commonly presents with tinnitus and dizziness 2, 3

Clinical Evidence and Guidelines

• The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery suggests that prednisone can cause dizziness and tinnitus as adverse effects, though these symptoms are also commonly associated with the underlying conditions for which prednisone is prescribed 1, 4
• Clinicians must differentiate between adverse drug effects and symptoms of the underlying condition being treated when patients on prednisone report dizziness or tinnitus 2, 3
• Most serious adverse effects of corticosteroids occur with chronic use rather than the short 10-14 day courses typically prescribed for audiovestibular conditions 3