Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) with over 20 years of experience in the field. I understand you're asking about **drugs that can cause ringing in the ears, known medically as tinnitus.** This is a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to loud noise, certain medical conditions, and yes, even medication.

It's important to understand that not all drugs will cause tinnitus, and the likelihood of experiencing this side effect varies depending on the drug, the dosage, and the individual's susceptibility. **Tinnitus is often a temporary side effect**, meaning it resolves once the medication is stopped. However, in some cases, tinnitus can persist even after stopping the medication, or it can become a long-term problem.

Here are some categories of drugs that have been linked to tinnitus as a side effect:

* Antibiotics: Some commonly prescribed antibiotics, such as gentamicin, streptomycin, and kanamycin, are known to be ototoxic, meaning they can damage the inner ear. Ototoxicity can lead to tinnitus, hearing loss, and in some cases, dizziness and balance problems.
* **Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):** Aspirin and other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause tinnitus in some individuals, especially when taken in high doses or for prolonged periods.
* Loop Diuretics: These medications, such as **furosemide (Lasix) and bumetanide (Bumex)**, are often used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention. They can cause tinnitus as a side effect, especially in people with kidney problems.
* Chemotherapy Drugs: Some chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin, can also cause ototoxicity, leading to tinnitus, hearing loss, and other ear problems.
* Anti-malarial Drugs: Quinine and other anti-malarial drugs can cause tinnitus in some people.
* Recreational Drugs: Cocaine and marijuana have also been associated with tinnitus.

**Other factors that can influence the risk of developing tinnitus from medication include:**

* Age: Older adults are more susceptible to ototoxicity.
* Kidney or Liver Function: People with impaired kidney or liver function may be more likely to experience tinnitus from medications.
* Dosage and Duration of Use: Higher doses and longer durations of medication use increase the risk of tinnitus.

**It's crucial to understand that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other medications that can cause tinnitus. If you experience ringing in your ears, especially if it's a new symptom or if you're taking any medications, it's essential to contact your doctor immediately.** They can help determine the underlying cause of your tinnitus and recommend appropriate treatment or adjust your medication regimen if necessary.

**Remember, tinnitus can be a serious condition, but in many cases, it can be managed effectively with the right treatment.**
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Medicines That Can Cause Tinnitus. Many prescription and nonprescription medicines can cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus). A few examples are: Aspirin, ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), and naproxen (such as Aleve).read more >>