Hello and welcome to another episode of The Flex Audiology Show! Today, I’m delighted to introduce you to Lenire (pronounced le-near), the latest innovation for tinnitus treatment that’s sweeping the audiology world… and perhaps even your world! 

If you've been living with tinnitus, you know how disruptive it can be. The persistent ringing or buzzing can impact your concentration, sleep, and overall quality of life. However, there's a promising new treatment that might just change your tinnitus experience: the Lenire device. 

Lenire is not your average tinnitus treatment; it combines cutting-edge neuromodulation technology that specifically targets chronic subjective tinnitus.  

But what exactly makes Lenire stand out, and how does it work? 

Understanding What Lenire Is 

At its core, the Lenire device is a bimodal neuromodulation tool.  

Designed to alleviate the symptoms of chronic subjective tinnitus, it uses a dual approach by stimulating both the auditory and somatosensory systems. This is achieved through Bluetooth headphones for sound stimulation and a small mouthpiece that delivers gentle tongue stimulation. 

This method is based on the principle of neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to naturally rewire itself in response to new internal or external stimuli. By pairing gentle tongue pulses with customized sound therapy, Lenire helps your brain reduce its perception of tinnitus. 

What to Expect From the Treatment Process 

If Lenire is determined to be a good fit for your needs by your audiologist, your treatment plan will typically involve two 30-minute sessions each day, totaling about 60 minutes daily.  

A complete course usually spans between 10 to 12 weeks; this is significantly shorter than conventional tinnitus retraining therapies, which might last up to 18 months. 

This intensive yet compact therapy period allows Lenire to provide significant relief in less time compared to traditional methods. Moreover, the device's flexibility ensures that your treatment can be customized and adjusted during your journey based on ongoing assessments by your healthcare provider. 

Clinical Validations and FDA Approval 

The effectiveness of Lenire is backed by significant clinical research.  

The device gained its credibility through trials such as the TENT-A1 and TENT-A2 studies, which reported that over 86 percent of compliant users experienced a noticeable improvement in their symptoms. Importantly, many of these benefits persisted even after the therapy stopped. 

These impressive results were pivotal in securing FDA approval in 2023, marking the Lenire device as a groundbreaking option in the US for tinnitus management. 

Availability and Support Network 

Since its introduction, Lenire has broadened its availability across the United States. Currently, there are about 90 certified providers in the commercial market and approximately 50 providers in Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities.  

If you are a veteran with bothersome tinnitus, your local VA audiologist could be your first point of contact to explore this option, considering that tinnitus is a leading disability among US veterans. 

Working With Tinnitus Specialists 

It's important to note that Lenire is not an over-the-counter solution; it requires a prescription and needs to be programmed by a certified provider, who will tailor the settings to your specific needs.  

Your tinnitus specialist will likely start by reviewing your hearing test results, which informs the customization of your therapy. Regular check-ins will allow your specialist to track your progress and make necessary adjustments. 

Lenire might be an ideal solution if you've battled chronic tinnitus and have had limited success with other treatments.  

If you're ready to commit to a routine of daily therapy and are seeking relief from your tinnitus, consulting with your qualified tinnitus provider is a sensible next step. 

Is Lenire Right for You? 

Lenire offers a promising new approach to managing tinnitus. But while it is a powerful tool, it's essential to remember it is part of a broader management strategy tailored to help you habituate to the tinnitus and reduce its impact on your life. 

To explore Lenire and see if it would be a good fit for your needs, feel free to give us a call at your closest clinic to get in touch with our tinnitus specialists.  

Connecting with a specialist who understands the intricacies of tinnitus can make all the difference. You can count on us to guide you through your treatment journey with expertise and care!