I've Recently Been on Doxycycline, Tylenol and Aleve, Now Have Tinnitus and Need Support

[Alvin Crespo]

Hi everyone!

Hope you're all doing good.

I recently started hearing buzzing that sounds much louder in the evening/night for about 2 months now. I did some research and was completely shocked at the number of medications that are ototoxic! Medications that I've been using very recently, including:

- Doxycycline (for an infection earlier this year)
- Tylenol / Aleve (for back pain and general pain)

I had no idea any of these medications had this kind of effect. I've completely stopped taking pain killers. On top of that, I used to wear headphones for work and gaming - and it was probably too loud.

I just got my J&J vaccine last week and didn't have an issue. I started Lexapro on Monday and had my ears ring 5 times in one day - I immediately stopped it. I told my PCP and am trying to figure out alternatives.

Yeah - there is a lot here.

It's now 3:15AM and I've been awake since 12:30AM because my buzzing has been super loud tonight.

I've got an appointment for the 30th of April with my ENT/Audiologist to go over these issues - but I think I might make that sooner because this is really scaring me.

I don't know where to begin. I've read ATA's website but would love some recommendations from folks here.

Thank you in advance!

 

[CanadianMaple]

I really feel for you Alvin. Ototoxic drugs are very common and used too frequently in my opinion, sometimes though there is no other option.

I believe my tinnitus was caused my medications. I believe everyone has a "threshold" of hearing protection. Some less, others more. Some can shoot a gun their whole lives and not have any hearing problems, others shoot once and are left deaf or with permanent tinnitus.

I grew up working around heavy machinery, hunting, loud music, Call of Duty and NO hearing protection. Never had a problem until I needed painkillers for migraines, and psychiatric meds. I think these either removed my natural protection or broke that threshold.

I could go on for hours. It does get better.