What is Ototoxicity – and How Can You Avoid It?

When most people think of medication side effects, they usually think of drowsiness, upset stomach, or fatigue. But did you know some medications and other chemicals can cause hearing loss?

When medication side effects result in hearing loss, it’s called ototoxicity. Read on to discover the causes, treatments, and ways to avoid ototoxicity.

What is Ototoxicity?

Ototoxicity refers to the ability of a medication or substance to cause damage to the inner ear, specifically the tiny sensory hair cells in the inner ear. This damage can result in hearing loss, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), or balance problems.

What Causes Ototoxicity?

Although industrial chemicals can cause ototoxicity, most cases of ototoxicity are side effects of medication. These medications are widely used. It’s not uncommon for a patient to take more than one of these medications simultaneously, which can heighten the ototoxic effect of the drugs.

What Medications Can Cause Hearing Loss?

Although this may be the first time you’re hearing about it, ototoxicity is a side effect of many more medications than you may realize. Many of the medicines used to treat conditions associated with aging have some degree of ototoxicity. According to one study, 84-91% of older adults were found to be taking at least one ototoxic medication, with many taking more than one.

Chemotherapy Drugs

Not all chemotherapy drugs are considered ototoxic, but some of them are. It’s crucial to weigh the overall risks and benefits of your medications. You may be a good candidate for a different medication that does not have ototoxicity as a side effect. You should discuss your options with your healthcare provider if ototoxicity concerns you.

The following cancer medications are associated with ototoxicity:

• Platinum-based drugs, such as cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin
• Methotrexate
• Vinca alkaloids, including vincristine and vinblastine

Antibiotics

When most people get medication to treat a bacterial infection, the possibility of hearing loss doesn’t even cross their minds. However, several different antibiotics can cause ototoxicity and lead to hearing loss. Most antibiotics are only available with a prescription. These include:

• Aminoglycosides, such as neomycin, gentamycin, and tobramycin.
• Macrolides, such as erythromycin and clarithromycin.
• Fluoroquinolones, such as ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin.

NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories)

As we age, our risk increases for age-related hearing loss. We are also more likely to experience pain due to arthritis and other conditions. Unfortunately, some medications treating joint and bone pain can cause ototoxicity, worsening hearing loss. These include NSAIDs, available as a prescription and over the counter.

Some of the most common NSAIDs that can cause ototoxicity include:

• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Diclofenac (Voltaren)
• Indomethacin (Indocin)
• Etodolac (Lodine)

This list is not a complete list of medications that can cause hearing loss. If you have concerns about these or other drugs, talk to your prescriber to see if an alternative medicine may be available. 

How Can You Treat Ototoxicity?

If you or someone you love has developed ototoxicity, while hearing loss cannot always be reversed, you can take steps to limit damage and treat any symptoms you have. If you have developed ototoxicity, your doctor may advise you to:

• Discontinue the medication that has caused it to prevent further damage.
• Visit your audiologist for testing. Here at Hearing Aids of Sarasota, we can assess the damage and degree of hearing loss and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How Can You Avoid Ototoxicity?

Unfortunately, many people do not know they have experienced ototoxicity until they show symptoms. By taking a proactive approach to your healthcare, you can be on the lookout for signs of ototoxicity to ensure it doesn’t progress. Additionally, you can:

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medications can cause ototoxicity.
• Ask for alternative treatment options if you already show signs of hearing loss or have experienced ototoxicity from previous medications.
• Try to avoid taking multiple medications with ototoxicity as a side effect.
• Always tell your doctor about other medications you take, even if you buy them over the counter.
• Get regular hearing screenings, especially if your medications can cause hearing loss.

Are you concerned about medication-related hearing loss?

In addition to talking to your primary medical provider, having an audiologist check your hearing regularly is essential. Contact us today at Hearing Aids of Sarasota to schedule your hearing evaluation and preserve the gift of hearing for years to come.