High Blood Pressure Medication That Does Not Increase Tinnitus

[MCK Trader]

Hello fellow forum members,

I am a 71-year-old male with type 2 diabetes (managed with daily insulin—most recent HbA1c was 5.9), possible congestive heart failure, and bilateral intrusive tinnitus. I am currently taking the blood pressure medication Clonidine, 0.1 mg three times daily.

For most of the time since my tinnitus began on May 15, 2014, Clonidine has adequately kept my blood pressure within an acceptable range. However, about four weeks ago, my blood pressure began to increase. At present, it ranges from the low 140s to as high as the 190s systolic (usually in the upper ranges), and from 55 to 80 diastolic. My pulse rate typically ranges between 48 and 80.

I have tried three different blood pressure medications—Diovan, Cardizem, and Hydralazine. A few years ago, before the onset of tinnitus, I used Diovan without any issues. About two weeks ago, I tried Diovan 80 mg again with a new prescription. By the end of the second day, however, the intensity of my tinnitus had increased so much that I could not bear it emotionally and had to stop taking it. That said, Diovan did significantly and quickly reduce my blood pressure.

The other two medications, Cardizem and Hydralazine, were not attempted because they came with many potential adverse side effects and a strong likelihood of worsening tinnitus. I also tried Hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic) in combination with Clonidine, and experienced the same increase in tinnitus.

I understand that each individual may respond differently to medications, supplements, and even foods. However, I would be deeply appreciative if any members currently using a blood pressure medication that does not significantly worsen tinnitus—or only causes a minimal increase—could share the name of that medication in a reply post.

I am hoping to gather a list of possible options to begin searching for one that will both lower my blood pressure and avoid aggravating my tinnitus.

As an older person without adequate blood pressure control, I am well aware that I am at serious risk of a heart attack, stroke, or vision and kidney issues in the near future. I am growing more and more desperate, and that is why I am reaching out to the very people who probably have more practical awareness of tinnitus than many so-called healthcare professionals.

Unfortunately, local cardiologists, neurologists, and general practitioners do not seem very informed about the complexities of tinnitus, nor do they appear to be very interested in helping.

I would be extremely grateful if anyone could share personal insights or experiences related to managing high blood pressure without worsening tinnitus. It seems likely that among all the forum members, some must be using medications that have little or no effect on tinnitus.

Please help me with this problem.

Thank you,
MCK Trader

 

[LadyDi]

Hi @MCK Trader: I know that many blood pressure meds list tinnitus as a side effect. But in most situations (not all but most), the risk of that happening is very small. The risk is greater, as it appears you know, of you having a heart attack, stroke or other serious medical event due to uncontrolled HBP. Your systolic number is very high.

I have been taking meds for hypertension for almost 30 years (I have been chronically hypertensive since very young) and have tried a few. Right now, I am on Enalapril -- have taken it for at least 7, 8 years without serious problems. It has not worsened my tinnitus, although I was taking it before I developed T. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor.

One thing to watch is your dosage level. I was on 10 mg Enalapril daily for awhile, and it made me dizzy. We were able to cut it to 5 mg daily and the symptoms greatly eased, plus my pressure still was under control. Find a doctor who is willing to work with you regarding trying different meds and dose levels. At least with HPB drugs, you have a lot of choices, most of them affordable.

I am hoping @Karen will chime in, as I believe her tinnitus was brought on by HPB medications (plus she is smart and kind!).
Good luck!

 

[billie48]

I am using Ramipril, an ACE inhibitor, for about 3 years now and it has not worsened my T. This is the drug name for Canada and I don't know if it uses the same for the States.

 

[Karen]

Billie,

The drug you're taking (Ramipril) is known by the brand name Altace. I'm glad it is working so well for you, and that it hasn't increased your tinnitus. Everyone is different, so it's hard to say which drugs might be potentially ototoxic for some people.

In my case, it was an ACE inhibitor (Lisinopril) that caused my mild tinnitus to get worse. I was then switched to a beta blocker -- first propranolol, then Toprol XL. I've read since then that most beta blockers (especially Atenolol, which is basically the same thing as Toprol XL) can be very ototoxic, and may even cause hearing loss in some people. I wish doctors would consider their patient's background and history before prescribing these drugs, as they are very potent.

I think my problem occurred because I already had tinnitus in one ear, plus some hearing loss. The drug just exacerbated my condition. Plus, I think that those of us who are 60 or older stand a greater risk of having side effects from these drugs.

MCK Trader, I hope you are able to find a drug that works for you with minimal side effects. Surely there must be some out there that have not had a history of ototoxicity. Here is a link to an interesting article about medicines and ototoxicity: http://www.tinnitusformula.com/library/ototoxicity-medications-that-cause-tinnitus/#.VPZ0Hrl0xok

 

[MCK Trader]

@ LadyDi; @ billie48,

Thanks to you two wonderful members for sharing your personal info!

I probably should also mention that I walk everyday with our golden retriever [West Texas weather permitting] about 1.25 = 1.5 miles each day. Exercise everyday with physical bodily, cable resistance, modest weight, and limited amount of aerobic exercise [total amount of physical activity time equals almost ninety minutes]. Have lost a little more than 40 pounds over last ten months, cautious diet and with portion sizes, very little salt or sugar, artificial sweeteners, low carbs, no caffeine, no alcohol, and no tobacco of any kind in more than 50 years, very little red meat, and lots of veggies and fruits.

I hope others will reply / post also.

Thanks again.

 

[Stink]

i have taken lisinopril with no harmful side effects.

 

[Jbeans]

Do all blood pressure meds cause tinnitus ? Is there a comprehensive list of which ones do or don't ?

 

[Ann C.]

I've been taking Losartan (the generic version of Cozaar) for several years. I have no idea what triggered my T; I didn't realize that blood pressure drugs could be the culprit.

Is it possible that this side effect could develop after a few years of taking a medication, or is it more likely that you'd see it right away?

 

[grate_biff]

Do all blood pressure meds cause tinnitus ? Is there a comprehensive list of which ones do or don't ?

I think some Betablockers can. Don´t know with other HBP meds.

 

[ANSilvestri]

I've been taking Losartan (the generic version of Cozaar) for several years. I have no idea what triggered my T; I didn't realize that blood pressure drugs could be the culprit.

Is it possible that this side effect could develop after a few years of taking a medication, or is it more likely that you'd see it right away?

The constant ring of tinnitus for me just started several weeks ago. I am curious of this also because I have been taking metoprolol from at least 10 years and all of the sudden BOOM..the ring started. It was like a light switch being turned on.

 

[jross7]

I too was on to topeol for several years and just suddenly my t started....However my b.p. was really not well controlled with that drug. So after I ran to my dr about the ringing she gave me a newer bp drug called telmisartan at 40 mg. It did lower my bp some but not enough and went to 80 mg a day and after 2 weeks by ears stopped ringing....soI am hoping it was uncontrolled high bp,that started mine. Interesting enough on two weekends we had overnight guests my ears were ringing ,but by Mon am it had stopped.So right now ,for me,I I need to keep my anxiety level and bp under control.....will report back in a month

 

[william adams]

Im taking atenolol 50 and recently cut the dosage in half for my blood pressure was 96 over 68. My diet changed with the onset of the T and lost 25 lbs and wasnt fat to begin with. With the weight loss and working out at the gym the blood pressure really lowered. I thought perhaps my T would leave or reduce in volume but have noticed no difference and atenolol is known for causing T. My MD said I have high end frquency loss with my hearing and that caused the T. Now taking half of a pill and bp is 100 over 70 and will try to wean off of it all together....

 

[jeannie]

I take metoprolol as well but I have been on this for about 6 years .

 

[evie418]

I'm also looking for a blood pressure medication that isn't known to cause or exacerbate tinnitus. I think my original tinnitus began when I was taking Wellbutrin for the first time back in 2000. I stopped the Wellbutrin, but the tinnitus continued. So I went back on the Wellbutrin and have stayed on it. My tinnitus has slowly gotten a bit worse which is no surprise since my hearing has gotten worse as well.

Three years ago I went to a new doctor who prescribed Atenelol because my bp was very high at that point. I was on a very low dose. I think half of the lowest dose available. My blood pressure went down quickly, but after about two weeks on 1/2 dose, I would awaken with the sound like a weed whacker makes when it's dying down. I panicked. The doctor swore it couldn't be the medication. But I took myself off it. Now three years later that sound is pretty much gone. My bp at this point isn't off the charts, but I'd like to get it lower. It ranges from 132/70 to 150/80 at the doctor's office. However, I'm terrified of ramping my tinnitus up again. Any suggestions would be appreciated.


As an aside, I find no direct cause for my tinnitus getting louder or softer. I was very stressed a few weeks ago, but my tinnitus was at a bearable level. Today, I'm feeling pretty relaxed and it's hissing away at a much louder volume.

 

[ruben ruiz]

Atenolol is bad news for tinnitus especially in later illness...

 

[evie418]

According to a Dr. Neil Bauman the two least ototoxic drugs are Levobunolol and Nebivolol. I haven't tried either.

I stopped taking Wellbutrin last spring and after a couple of months my BP dropped to just about the normal range. I've also been taking Golden Paste which is a cooked combination of tumeric, water, freshly ground pepper and olive oil. That is supposed to lower your blood pressure as well. The admins of a Facebook page that gives info about the GP say that if you're taking BP meds to monitor your blood pressure closely as you may need less.

 

[Sayeed]

Anyone else have experience taking Metoprolol? Did it spike your tinnitus?

I started on a low dose, 12.5 mg, today. I think it's my anxiety playing tricks on me... My tinnitus went up 15 minutes after taking it.

If it does increase my tinnitus I might have to try Nebivolol.

 

[Sayeed]

Damn it. Metoprolol increases my tinnitus. Oh well, I can check that off the list. Nebivolol next.

 

[Sayeed]

Looks like Nebivolol also increases my tinnitus. 6th day on and my tinnitus has increased.

Anyone have luck with ACE inhibitors? Looks like beta blockers don't work for me.

Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[blamingeverything]

Looks like Nebivolol also increases my tinnitus. 6th day on and my tinnitus has increased.

Anyone have luck with ACE inhibitors? Looks like beta blockers don't work for me.

Any insight would be appreciated.

What about ARBs? For some reason i have it logged in my head that ACE inhibitors are less preferable for several risk related reasons as compared to ARBs.

 

[Sayeed]

What about ARBs? For some reason i have it logged in my head that ACE inhibitors are less preferable for several risk related reasons as compared to ARBs.

Thanks for the suggestion. I'll investigate and run it by my doctor as well.

 

[Shelbylynn]

@Sayeed, I take Lisinopril and it hasn't affected my tinnitus at all.

 

[Sayeed]

@Sayeed, I take Lisinopril and it hasn't affected my tinnitus at all.

Thank you .

That's actually next one I want to give a try!

 

[RAA]

That's actually next one I want to give a try!

Hi - just to say there is some reports from certain sources that blood pressure meds can be "ototoxic" but as has been mentioned above much earlier, I do believe that we are all different and what may impact you or me may not be the case for others etc.

For example I had been taking Lisinopril for around 16 years before I first experienced my tinnitus in 2020. At first reading reports that Lisinopril can cause it I panicked and actually tried other blood pressure meds but I did perceive that tinnitus just seemed to get worse at the time (I have no way of really knowing if that was the case or not from those other meds).

But then in May of 2021 researching/speaking with my doctor etc they said that the chance that Lisinopril would suddenly cause this after 16 years would be very slim, so I went back to it in May 2021 and my tinnitus has progressively got so much better since then. I am pretty sure that my tinnitus was from prolonged noise exposure (earbuds) that I started using a lot in 2020, (that I have now not used for nearly 2 years) so feel much more certain that was the cause.

So my advice would to just keep in mind that fact that we are different and what may be bad for some is not for all etc. Good luck in finding what works best for you!

 

[dd314]

Looks like Nebivolol also increases my tinnitus. 6th day on and my tinnitus has increased.

Anyone have luck with ACE inhibitors? Looks like beta blockers don't work for me.

Any insight would be appreciated.

That's disappointing. I was hoping Nebivolol might be the one beta blocker that we could take. Was it a severe increase or a mild one?

 

[Sharona55]

Hi, I am also a senior with diabetes. This is what I take without any increase in tinnitus: Amlodipine Besylate 10 mg. I hope this helps.

 

[KellenDryce]

I developed tinnitus in my right ear just over two years ago after walking by a speaker on a sidewalk, when it suddenly turned on and blasted me.

Since then, I've been playing blood pressure roulette. First, I had to stop taking Hydrochlorothiazide because it was contributing to the post-acoustic trauma tinnitus.

I've tried Telmisartan, Losartan, and Enalapril. Each of them exacerbated the tinnitus by two to four times, even at low doses. Lisinopril did not affect the tinnitus, but it caused central nervous system side effects, so I had to stop that one as well.

I am finally having good luck with Benazepril. The other ACE inhibitor I would be open to trying is Quinapril, but that one faced contamination concerns in 2022 due to a cancer-linked ingredient and has been rare ever since.

 

[PeteJ]

I developed tinnitus in my right ear just over two years ago after walking by a speaker on a sidewalk, when it suddenly turned on and blasted me.

Since then, I've been playing blood pressure roulette. First, I had to stop taking Hydrochlorothiazide because it was contributing to the post-acoustic trauma tinnitus.

I've tried Telmisartan, Losartan, and Enalapril. Each of them exacerbated the tinnitus by two to four times, even at low doses. Lisinopril did not affect the tinnitus, but it caused central nervous system side effects, so I had to stop that one as well.

I am finally having good luck with Benazepril. The other ACE inhibitor I would be open to trying is Quinapril, but that one faced contamination concerns in 2022 due to a cancer-linked ingredient and has been rare ever since.

I don't want to take anything to lower blood pressure. My doctor says I don't need medication right now, but I need to bring it down or he might say he has to prescribe something.

Has anyone here tried natural methods? The problem with exercise and similar approaches is that I can't really go anywhere. I can't go to gyms, both because of the cost and the noise. I would set up a small gym in my apartment, but I don't have the money to buy the equipment I'd need. So I'm left with jogging or doing something outdoors, or maybe finding stairs to climb. But there's noise everywhere near me.

I also don't want to wear earplugs the whole time I'm doing these things, since that brings on the occlusion effect or whatever else happens when you wear them while getting your heart rate up and breathing heavily.

I don't think these medications are good in general, but more importantly, the possibility that they could affect or worsen tinnitus makes them a deal breaker—at least for me.

 

[KellenDryce]

Has anyone here tried natural methods? The problem with exercise and similar approaches is that I can't really go anywhere. I can't go to gyms, both because of the cost and the noise. I would set up a small gym in my apartment, but I don't have the money to buy the equipment I'd need. So I'm left with jogging or doing something outdoors, or maybe finding stairs to climb. But there's noise everywhere near me.

CoQ10, Magnesium Glycinate, Hawthorn Berries, Grape Seed Extract, Fish Oil, and Garlic Extract all came up in my research as potentially useful. Some of these may also anecdotally help with tinnitus.

 

[BuzzyBee]

I don't want to take anything to lower blood pressure. My doctor says I don't need medication right now, but I need to bring it down or he might say he has to prescribe something.

Have you tried Hibiscus tea? You can drink it warm, or brew it strong and have it over ice. I did a quick search, and some sites say it might help with tinnitus. I doubt it would make a real difference for the tinnitus, but it does taste good.