Massachusetts Eye and Ear researchers have shown that mifepristone, a drug currently FDA-approved for chemical abortion, prevents the growth of vestibular schwannoma (also known as acoustic neuroma) cells. This sometimes-lethal intracranial tumor typically causes hearing loss and tinnitus. The findings, published online today in Scientific Reports, suggest that mifepristone is a promising drug candidate to be repositioned for the treatment of these tumors.

David A. Sola-Del Valle, M.D., a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist, has recently joined the Glaucoma Service at Mass. Eye and Ear.