Medicines That Cause Hearing Loss

It is surprising to learn that most commonly prescribed medications may lead to hearing loss as one possible side effect. In fact, as per the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, more than 200 medications are associated with hearing loss, ear ringing, ear damage, or balance disorders. Collectively, these medications are listed as ototoxic. It means that if a medication is listed as ototoxic, it has toxic effects on the ear or its nerve supply.

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Common medications leading to hearing loss

The most common medications that may lead to hearing loss include prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. These include:

Aspirin

Aspirin has a link with hearing loss. It typically occurs when a very high dose is taken over for a long time. Today, the typical aspirin dose is a fraction of what it was some time ago. However, ringing in the ear (tinnitus) is one side effect of long-term aspirin use.

Chloroquine

Chloroquine is a prescription anti-malarial medication. It helps treat a specific type of intestinal infection caused by a parasite.

Cisplatin

Cisplatin is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of cancer. As a chemotherapy drug, cisplatin works to stop or slow down the growth of cancerous cells.

Furosemide

It is generic for the brand drug Lasix, commonly known as a water pill. It is prescribed to treat high blood pressure and reduce fluid retention (edema). It also works in the body to get rid of excess salt and water.

Gentamicin

It is a powerful antibiotic prescribed to treat or prevent bacterial infections. It stops bacteria growth and has been linked to hearing loss.

Ibuprofen

It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that helps treat painful inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

Naproxen

It is generic for Naprosyn and is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. It may be prescribed for injuries and muscle aches like tendonitis. It is helpful to treat dental pain, menstrual cramps, and headaches.

Neomycin

It is a powerful antibiotic prescribed after surgery to prevent bacterial infections in the intestines. It is also prescribed along with the special diet to treat hepatic encephalopathy.

Torsemide

It is a diuretic medication known as a water pill. It helps treat the extra water build-up and sale caused by liver, kidney, and heart disease.

Vancomycin

It is one mighty antibiotic helpful in treating several bacterial infections. It is typically given only by injection. It may also cause hearing loss as a side effect in a few people.

Conclusion

In many cases, hearing loss caused by the medications is temporary. It resolves when you complete your dose of antibiotic. However, few medicines like cisplatin and gentamicin may cause permanent damage to the ear.

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