Originally posted 04/26/2009:

Use of Zinc supplements for tinnitus is a common and easy treatment.  Zinc is an essential element the body needs for vital functions such as cell growth and division.  It is noted that zinc may play an important role in hearing function, although that exact role is not yet known.

Some limited studies with zinc have been performed looking at tinnitus with positive results.   However, from what I understand, such studies are very limited.  Here is a link to the study abstract:

http://www.otology-neurotology.com/pt/re/otoneuroto/abstract.00129492-200301000-00018.htm

I have personally used zinc supplements on and off over the past two years.  Nothing stands out in my memory as to zinc providing a strong positive response to my tinnitus.  On the other hand, I haven't used it continuously over a month or two as many suggest is needed.  If you are going to take zinc supplements for your tinnitus, especially over any long term time period, consulting with your doctor is recommended.

Any comments on your experience or results with zinc would be great.

4/27/2009 Alan - Site Administrator wrote:

Renoalaska,

Your advice is good about consulting a doctor about zinc supplements for tinnitus.  In fact, this goes for all supplements.  I am going to post a link to the article I noted so everyone can read it.  In the study, the duration on zinc was 2 months   

Mandie:

Some scientists in Japan did an extensive study on the relationship between zinc deficiency and tinnitus.  The problem was found mostly in those over 65 years of age - for some reason as we get older our ability to absorb Zinc is diminished or perhaps we are not eating as well.

They have the zinc test - some dietary supplement stores offer a soluable tablet you place under your tongue for a moment - if you taste it - I think you don't need the zinc supplement - if you taste nothing - bingo - get some zinc - as you take the zinc supplement keep using those soluable tablets to make sure you are not over dosing.

I took zinc for a couple of months - no discernable difference - I have moderate hearing loss in the high frequencies -