Can Ototoxic Medications Cause Hyperacusis?

Hello forum,

Most of the reading I’ve found states that hyperacusis is a result of loud sound(s), suddenly or over a long period of time. Is there any evidence to support the idea that it could be the result of medications - possibly antidepressants?

Best,
Tom

 

Yes, there are members who’ve gotten hyperacusis from otoxic meds.

 

I got tinnitus and hyperacusis from Neomycin.

 

Absolutely antidepressants can (and do) cause hyperacusis, as well as tinnitus. I assume virtually any kind of ototoxic medication that can cause tinnitus can also cause hyperacusis. And I know the number of drugs that can cause tinnitus is in the hundreds. -- Mold and mercury toxicity can also be causative or contributing factors in Hyperacusis. Got any metal in your mouth? I've always assumed just about any kind of heavy metal can be very detrimental to our ears as well.

 

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I’m presently off my meds for 7-8 weeks and I’m assuming it’s mostly out of my system by now. My T and H are definitely more tolerable now, as compared to the original onset, but I’m still not sure if this was sound induced or from the meds. I guess the question is, how long should I stay off the meds to make sure they aren’t the culprit in all of this. I’ve read about people’s T getting better 6 months or longer, after stopping meds. It’s a guessing game.

 

@MusicTeacher -- I would stay away from them forever. Even if they (antidepressants) don't immediately affect your ears, it doesn't mean they aren't causing longer-term damage. And what about the damage they can do to the brain and neurological system as well? -- It seems we're at somewhat of a tipping point where more more doctors and researchers are sounding the alarm(s) on this ill-conceived foray into antidepressants medications the past few decades, and the incalculable devastation they've inflicted on so many people.

 

@Lane. Yes, I’ve been thinking about trying to leave the meds altogether. Unfortunately, they really did help me find some peace. Kind of wish I never went down that path now. I’m trying to find the positive here; maybe I’ll be a healthier person in the long run.

 

I have hyperacusis and tinnitus after ingesting neomycin. It sucks.

 

I agree the damage these meds cause to the brain is immeasurable. As a tinnitus and hyperacusis suffer it is abundantly clear that doctors dispense antidepressants with little regard to the long term effects they have on the brain. They literally are playing Russian roulette without the personal risk. Find natural alternatives. Our brains are already negatively impacted by tinnitus due to the ear brain connection. Why exacerbate the condition?????

 

I just read than anasthesia could potentially cause hearing loss so no wonder I have Tinnitus at the level I have it and my friends have a more mild form of it after going to the same concerts for years

I’ve been put under twice in the last 2 years, one general and one local. Plus several rounds of anti-biopics and a few days of Norco/oxy. No wonder my ears got messed up

 

Can a metal dental implant and a permanent retainer play part in Tinnitus??

 

Ingesting? How long did you use it for? How did you use it, where?