What medication causes ringing in the ears?
Several medications can cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus) as a side effect. Here are some common medications known to cause tinnitus:
1. Aspirin and Other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): High doses of aspirin and other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause temporary tinnitus.
2. Quinine and Antimalarial Drugs: Medications like quinine, which is sometimes used to treat malaria, can cause tinnitus.
3. Loop Diuretics: Certain diuretics, such as furosemide and bumetanide, may cause tinnitus as a side effect, especially at high doses.
4. Aminoglycoside Antibiotics: Antibiotics such as streptomycin, neomycin, and gentamicin can lead to permanent hearing loss and tinnitus, particularly with long-term use or high doses.
5. Chemotherapy Drugs: Some chemotherapy drugs, including cisplatin, carboplatin, and bleomycin, can damage the inner ear and result in tinnitus.
6. Salicylates: Medications containing salicylates, like some pain relievers and fever reducers, can cause tinnitus when taken in high doses.
7. Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, primarily those belonging to the tricyclic group (such as amitriptyline and imipramine), can cause tinnitus.
8. Anticonvulsants: Medications used to treat seizures, like phenytoin and carbamazepine, may lead to tinnitus as a side effect.
9. Antipsychotics: Some antipsychotic drugs, such as chlorpromazine and haloperidol, have been associated with tinnitus.
10. Ototoxic Drugs: Certain medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can have a harmful effect on the inner ear and cause tinnitus. These include some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, painkillers, and diuretics.
11. Nicotine Replacement Therapy Medications: Nicotine patches or gum used for smoking cessation may occasionally cause tinnitus as a side effect.
12. High-Dose Vitamins and Supplements: Excessive intake of certain vitamins, minerals, or dietary supplements, such as vitamin A, niacin, or ginkgo biloba, may lead to tinnitus.
It is important to note that not everyone who takes these medications will experience tinnitus. The occurrence and severity of tinnitus can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing tinnitus while taking any medication, it is essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss potential causes and appropriate management strategies.