Tinnitus: Drugs

Some prescription and over-the-counter drugs can negatively affect tinnitus. Be sure to ask for a printed list of known side effects of medications that are prescribed to you before you take them. Also, do your own research before you take medications (over-the counter or prescription). You may have to inform your doctor that tinnitus is a known side effect of a drug that he or she has recommended. Ask if there is a comparable drug that does not list tinnitus as a side effect. 

Also, tinnitus may not be listed as a known side effect of a drug. But, if you experience an increase in ringing in your ears after taking any drug you should consult your doctor immediately. Ask if there is a comparable drug that does not cause the loudness or annoyance of your tinnitus to spike.

Don't automatically assume that the doctor is even thinking about your tinnitus or is empathetic to your ear condition. You may have to continue to repeatedly remind some doctors that you have the condition. Some doctors still view tinnitus as a minor condition. Other doctors are up to date on the issue.