Tinnitus is a potential side-effect of many prescription medications. However, in
most cases and for most drugs, tinnitus is an acute, short-lived side-effect; if
the patient stops taking the medication, the tinnitus symptoms typically recede.
Some drugs that can cause or worsen tinnitus:
- Aspirin and other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
(NSAIDs), including
ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Certain Antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, doxycycline,
gentamicin,
erythromycin, tetracycline, tobramycin, and vancomycin.
- Certain Cancer medications, including cisplatin and
vincristine.
- Loop Diuretics (when given intravenously in high doses).
- Tricyclic Antidepressants such as amitriptyline, clomipramine,
and
imipramine.
- Antimalarial Drugs such as chloroquine and quinine
- Certain Anticonvulsants, including carbamazepine and valproic
acid.
If you are worried about tinnitus as a side effect of your medications, please
consult your subscribing Doctor. You should not stop taking any medication
without first consulting with your healthcare provider. The risks of stopping a
medication may far exceed any potential benefit.
