Medications and Hearing Loss

The NCRAR is internationally known for its extensive work in the area of ototoxicity monitoring, the audiologic testing of patients being treated with therapeutic drugs which can produce damage to the inner ear. Patients receiving these drugs are at risk for incurring irreversible hearing loss. The situation is even more critical for individuals who already have a hearing loss. Auditory monitoring for detection of ototoxic effects can lead to treatment decisions that preserve hearing.

Study Drugs

The NCRAR monitors intravenous administration of the following drugs which have been determined to be potentially ototoxic:

Cisplatin and Carboplatin, chemotherapeutic agents given for the treatment of cancer.  Aminoglycoside Antibiotics: Gentamycin, Tobramycin, Amikacin. These are potentially ototoxic when used intravenously. They are used to treat serious infections.
Vancomycin: This antibiotic is also potentially ototoxic when given intravenously. It is often used in conjunction with the aminoglycosides which increases the possibility of cochlear damage.

Symptoms of Ototoxicity

• Feelings of fullness or pressure in your ears.
• Development of tinnitus in one or both ears.
• Development of vertigo (spinning sensation).
• Awareness of decreased hearing or worsening of an existing hearing loss.

What Should You Do

• Inform your doctor of your hearing loss. Make sure that any specialists you see also are informed.
• When a new medication is prescribed, ask your doctor to inform you of any potential side effects, including ototoxic effects. Arrange for audiologic monitoring, if available.
• Inform yourself of side effects of over-the-counter medications. Aspirin, Advil, and Aleve often have dose related ototoxic effects. These effects are generally reversible when the medication is discontinued.
• Be especially careful to avoid exposure to loud noises while being treated with potentially ototoxic medications.
• As with noise induced hearing loss, effects experienced are highly individualized.