Medications are designed to improve health, but not all their effects are positive. One lesser-known side effect of certain medications is their potential impact on hearing. For some, this may come as a surprise, especially since hearing loss often develops gradually. However, understanding how medications interact with hearing health can greatly protect one’s ears.
What Are Ototoxic Medications?
Ototoxic medications are drugs that can damage the inner ear, leading to hearing loss or balance issues. These medications affect the hair cells in the cochlea, a part of the inner ear responsible for processing sound. When these cells are damaged, hearing may be permanently affected.
Common ototoxic drugs include certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and diuretics. Aspirin, when taken in high doses, can also temporarily cause hearing problems. Although not everyone will experience hearing loss from these drugs, some individuals may notice ringing in their ears (tinnitus) or difficulty hearing as a result. Individuals on long-term medications should consider a hearing health exam to monitor any changes.
Antibiotics and Hearing Loss
Some antibiotics are known for their ototoxic effects. Aminoglycosides, a class of antibiotics often used to treat serious infections, have been associated with hearing damage. While these antibiotics are effective against life-threatening conditions, they can lead to hearing loss, especially with prolonged use.
Other antibiotics, such as erythromycin and vancomycin, can also cause hearing issues in certain individuals. For those requiring antibiotic treatment, discussing potential risks with a hearing health professional can help identify safer alternatives.
Chemotherapy Drugs and Hearing Damage
Cancer treatments are known for their challenging side effects, and unfortunately, some chemotherapy drugs can be harsh on the ears. Cisplatin, one of the most common chemotherapy drugs, has been linked to hearing loss in both adults and children undergoing cancer treatment.
In cases where hearing damage is unavoidable, healthcare teams often suggest regular hearing tests throughout treatment. Early detection through a hearing health exam allows for proper management of any hearing loss.
Diuretics and Hearing Health
Diuretics, commonly prescribed to reduce fluid retention or control blood pressure, can sometimes cause temporary hearing loss. Medications such as furosemide and bumetanide are often used to treat conditions like heart failure or hypertension.
While hearing usually returns to normal once the medication is stopped, repeated use may increase the risk of permanent hearing damage. It’s always wise to monitor hearing if diuretics are part of a long-term treatment plan. Consulting a hearing health professional can provide reassurance and detect early signs of hearing issues.
Pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen are common household medications. However, when taken in high doses or over extended periods, these nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can contribute to hearing loss. Frequent use of NSAIDs may increase the risk of hearing damage, particularly in older adults.
Protecting Hearing Health When Taking Medications
While the side effects of medications are sometimes unavoidable, there are ways to reduce the risk of hearing damage. For individuals on long-term or high-dose treatments, regular hearing exams are essential for monitoring any changes. These exams can help detect early signs of hearing loss, allowing hearing health professionals to adjust medications if necessary.
Medication-induced hearing loss may not always be preventable, but being aware of the potential risks is an important step in protecting hearing health. For anyone concerned about how medications may impact their ears, a hearing health exam is a simple and effective way to stay informed. Early detection can often make a big difference in managing hearing loss, ensuring that treatment plans are both safe and effective.