Investigating hearing loss caused by aminoglycoside antibiotics in infants

Clinical factors in aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity

NIH-funded research Creighton University · NIH-10653034

This study is looking at how higher doses of a common antibiotic called gentamicin, used to treat infections in newborns, might affect their hearing, especially for babies in intensive care, so we can find ways to prevent any hearing loss while still helping them get better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCreighton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-10653034 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how aminoglycoside antibiotics, commonly used to treat bacterial infections in infants, may lead to hearing loss. The study aims to determine if higher doses of gentamicin, a type of aminoglycoside, are linked to increased hearing impairment in newborns, particularly those in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). By examining the relationship between antibiotic dosage and hearing outcomes, the researchers hope to identify risk factors that could help prevent drug-induced hearing loss. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for infants who are treated with these life-saving medications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants receiving aminoglycoside antibiotics in NICUs, particularly those with suspected sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving aminoglycoside antibiotics or who are not in the neonatal intensive care unit may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that minimize the risk of hearing loss in infants treated with aminoglycosides.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been pilot studies indicating a risk of hearing loss associated with aminoglycosides, this research aims to provide more rigorous data on the topic.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.