Tag: Inner ear damage

Up to 84% of patients receiving platinum-based chemotherapy like cisplatin may experience ototoxicity, with many reporting tinnitus. A common question for these individuals is, **can cisplatin cause tinnitus?** The answer is yes, as it is a well-documented and significant side effect of the medication.

In some studies, the risk of hearing loss in patients who received Gentamicin was as high as 25 percent, highlighting the serious side effect known as ototoxicity. This occurs because gentamicin, a powerful antibiotic, can damage the delicate sensory hair cells of the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing impairment. But beyond simple damage, **why does gentamicin cause hearing loss** through complex, multi-faceted mechanisms?

Up to 50% of patients treated with certain injectable medicines for drug-resistant tuberculosis may develop permanent hearing loss [1.6.5]. Understanding **what is the mechanism of drug-induced ototoxicity** is crucial for mitigating this widespread risk associated with over 600 different medications [1.2.2].

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, there are over 200 known medications and chemicals that are considered 'ototoxic,' meaning they can damage the inner ear and impact hearing. Understanding what drug messes with your hearing is crucial, as some effects can be temporary while others may be permanent, depending on the medication, dosage, and duration of use.

Affecting an estimated 20% of individuals exposed to ototoxic medications, ototoxicity, or 'ear poisoning,' refers to damage to the inner ear's delicate sensory structures caused by certain drugs and chemicals. The effects can range from temporary ringing in the ears to profound and permanent hearing loss.