Drugs that Can Cause Hearing Loss or Tinnitus

Numerous pharmaceutical agents are associated with side effects. Medically classified as ototoxicity, or drug-induced hearing loss, almost 200 medications are linked to hearing issues and balance disorders. The intensity of hearing impairment and tinnitus can vary, contingent upon the specific medication, the prescribed dosage, and the duration of usage. The likelihood of experiencing ototoxicity escalates as the drug accumulates within the body.

Drug-Induced Hearing Loss: Common Medications Linked to Ototoxicity

Aminoglycoside Antibiotics

Aminoglycosides are a class of antibiotics specifically used to treat bacterial infections. They are primarily administered intravenously in hospitals to address severe infections, such as meningitis, when other treatments are ineffective. Newborns are notably at risk for hearing loss if they receive high doses. Casporyn HC, Cortisporin, and various antibiotic ear drops contain aminoglycoside ingredients, including neomycin. Clinicians are generally reluctant to prescribe these medications for durations exceeding 10 days, and they avoid giving them to patients with perforated eardrums due to the potential risk of permanent sensorineural hearing loss. These medications slowly clear out of the inner ear, with detection possible months after the final dose. This can result in delayed-onset hearing loss and increased susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss.

Quinine

Quinine has been used for many years as an antimalarial medication and is also prescribed off-label for nocturnal leg cramps. Chloroquine, a related compound, is employed to prevent and treat malaria, while hydroxychloroquine can treat autoimmune diseases such as lupus. These medications may cause temporary issues such as hearing loss and tinnitus, particularly with prolonged use. Fortunately, these auditory effects are typically transient and resolve upon discontinuation of the drug.

High Blood Pressure Medication

Certain blood pressure medications, known as antihypertensives, are associated with the onset of tinnitus, though this correlation does not apply to all such medications. The precise reasons for some blood pressure medications to induce tinnitus are not fully understood. Some researchers postulate that tinnitus may result from decreased blood flow to the inner ear. This condition may occur due to reduced blood pressure induced by these medications.

Diabetes

While pharmacological treatments for diabetes generally do not induce ototoxicity, chronic hyperglycemia may lead to auditory complications by impairing neural signaling to the auditory system.

Chemotherapy

A few cancer therapies are known to induce hearing loss as a side effect. For instance, cisplatin, for treating advanced bladder, testicular, and ovarian cancers, can have ototoxic effects, encompassing tinnitus, vertigo, and both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Studies indicate that as much as fifty percent of patients undergoing treatment with cisplatin may experience some degree of ototoxicity.

Diuretics

Diuretics are medications designed to reduce the volume of fluid in the body and may pose a risk of hearing issues. Notable examples include furosemide, ethacrynic acid, and bumetanide, all categorized as loop diuretics. These medications help manage conditions such as edema and hypertension. They can occasionally result in temporary hearing loss and tinnitus; however, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. The likelihood of experiencing auditory side effects goes up when these medications are delivered via intravenous administration or in conjunction with other ototoxic agents.

Pain Relief Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers, like naproxen, acetaminophen, and aspirin, have been shown to be linked to hearing loss and tinnitus, particularly with prolonged high-dose use. Recent studies suggest a correlation between these medications and an increased risk of hearing impairment. Individuals taking daily aspirin or other over-the-counter pain medications should consult their healthcare provider regarding potential auditory side effects. It is important to emphasize that the overall risk is low when following dosage guidelines.

Viagra

Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as sildenafil, commonly referred to as Viagra, are associated with a rare yet potential risk of hearing loss. These medications treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Opiates and Opioids

Any medications classified as opioids possess the potential to induce sudden hearing loss and balance disorders. This includes both prescription drugs, such as OxyContin, Vicodin, fentanyl, morphine, and methadone, as well as illicit drugs like opium and heroin.

Nicotine and Alcohol

While not classified as medications, alcohol and nicotine exert a considerable impact on blood flow to the inner ear, potentially leading to hearing-related problems. Consequently, reducing or eliminating the consumption of these substances may facilitate improvements in auditory health.

Ototoxicity is Unpredictable

The use of medications does not necessarily result in hearing loss or ototoxicity. Responses to medications can vary significantly, with potential side effects ranging from temporary tinnitus and hearing loss to permanent auditory damage. In some instances, an individual may not experience any auditory issues at all. If you are currently taking medications and encounter sudden difficulties with hearing or balance, contact your healthcare provider without delay.