What's Coming
If you've ever wondered "will they ever actually fix hearing loss?"—here's where things stand.
Something's Actually Happening
For decades, the only answer to hearing loss was "get a hearing aid." That's changing. Scientists are now testing treatments that fix the underlying problem—not just turn up the volume. Some children who were born deaf are hearing their parents' voices for the first time.
We're not going to hype you. Most of this is years away, and early treatments will only help people with specific genetic conditions. But for the first time, there's real reason to pay attention.
The Furthest Along
These are the treatments closest to actually reaching patients.
DB-OTO
Regeneron (Decibel Therapeutics)
11 of 12 children showed meaningful hearing improvement. 3 achieved normal hearing. 6 can hear soft speech unaided. Results published in NEJM.
AK-OTOF
Eli Lilly (Akouos)
First participant (age 11) restored hearing within 30 days across all frequencies. Has FDA Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease designations.
The Pipeline
How treatments move from lab to approval. Most never make it—but here's what's in progress.
Phase 3
Large trials, final step before approval
- None yet for genetic hearing loss — DB-OTO may file for approval late 2025
Phase 1/2
Testing safety and early signs of effectiveness
- OTOF gene therapies — Regeneron and Lilly leading the race
Preclinical
Lab and animal studies, not yet in humans
- GJB2 (Connexin 26) gene therapy — Most common cause of genetic deafness, but harder to target
- Hair cell regeneration — ATOH1 and other approaches to regrow damaged cells
- TMC1 gene therapy — For TMC1-related deafness
Common Questions
I have age-related hearing loss. Does any of this help me?
Not yet, honestly. Current treatments target rare genetic conditions in children. But the science being developed now—regenerating cells, delivering genes to the inner ear—will eventually lead to treatments for more common hearing loss. We're watching it closely.
Should I wait to get hearing aids?
No. These treatments are years away, and hearing aids help you now. Untreated hearing loss affects your brain, relationships, and quality of life. Get help today, and stay hopeful about tomorrow.
How do I know what's real vs. hype?
Look for treatments in actual clinical trials (listed on ClinicalTrials.gov). Be skeptical of anything promising a "cure" you can buy today. We only cover research that's being tested in humans by legitimate institutions.
Can I join a clinical trial?
Maybe. Search ClinicalTrials.gov for "hearing loss" and your location. Most current trials have strict criteria (specific genes, age ranges), but new trials open regularly. Your audiologist may know of opportunities.