A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Hydrogen Therapy in Hearing Loss.
CongZhong Wang, Mailudan Ainiwaer, Zheng Jiang, LongHao Wang · Noise & health · 2026
Research-use notice
Independent study record
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H2HUBB TAKEAWAY
This systematic review examined hydrogen (H₂ ) therapy demonstrates selective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with potential therapeutic value for multiple forms of hearing loss, though consolidated evidence is still lacking. In NIHL models, H₂ administration reduced Auditory Brainstem Response threshold shifts and improved Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions recovery, while preserving cochlear morphology via reactive oxygen species (ROS) suppression. Due to significant heterogeneity and inconsistent statistical reporting across studies, meta-analysis and publication bias assessment were not feasible. The reviewed evidence adds support for molecular hydrogen's therapeutic potential across the conditions, mechanisms, or outcomes examined.
What the Findings Mean
H2HUBB reviewed this publication as a synthesis of molecular-hydrogen research and summarizes the outcomes emphasized by the authors. In NIHL models, H₂ administration reduced Auditory Brainstem Response threshold shifts and improved Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions recovery, while preserving cochlear morphology via reactive oxygen species (ROS) suppression.
What the Researchers Studied
The authors reviewed hydrogen (H₂ ) therapy demonstrates selective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with potential therapeutic value for multiple forms of hearing loss, though consolidated evidence is still lacking.
What Effects Did Molecular Hydrogen Have?
In NIHL models, H₂ administration reduced Auditory Brainstem Response threshold shifts and improved Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions recovery, while preserving cochlear morphology via reactive oxygen species (ROS) suppression. The authors concluded that further trials are required to establish optimal protocols and confirm efficacy. Hydrogen (H₂ ) therapy demonstrates selective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with potential therapeutic value for multiple forms of hearing loss, though consolidated evidence is still lacking. HYDROGEN THERAPY IN NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS: These included studies, conducted primarily in animal models, highlight the efficacy of hydrogen in mitigating the oxidative stress and inflammation that underlie NIHL [ Table 1 ].
Why These Findings Matter
The reviewed evidence adds support for molecular hydrogen's therapeutic potential across the conditions, mechanisms, or outcomes examined.
How Strong Is This Evidence?
This is review or synthesis evidence (systematic review).
Technical Study Details
H2HUBB classifies this publication as systematic review with review or synthesis evidence. The study used a systematic review. The hydrogen delivery method was inhaled hydrogen gas.
Limitations and Safety
Reported limitations: Due to significant heterogeneity and inconsistent statistical reporting across studies, meta-analysis and publication bias assessment were not feasible.
Original Study and H2HUBB Research Context
H2HUBB presents this source-grounded research record as one contribution to the broader molecular-hydrogen evidence base.