Tinnitus is a common symptom of hearing loss, perceived as ringing or buzzing in the ears. Different causes, types, or symptoms of tinnitus may require distinct treatments. If you believe you suffer from tinnitus, obtain a diagnosis from a hearing professional, such as an ENT doctor, who can help you evaluate your condition and find appropriate treatment.
For certain types of tinnitus, drug treatment may be appropriate. In this article, we review some of the most commonly used medications for tinnitus.
Antidepressants for tinnitus
As of today, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically designed to treat or cure tinnitus. That said, some medications have undergone clinical studies and have been used in some cases for patients suffering from tinnitus.
In some clinical studies, such as one by the National Institute of Health, evidence of the efficacy of tricyclic antidepressants for tinnitus has been inconclusive. The 2005 study did, however, indicate positive effects in a group that received a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which "warrants further research."
Another study, led by Robert A Dobie, however, showed that in patients with severe tinnitus that may be linked to depression or other disorders, tricyclic antidepressants reduced tinnitus complaints compared to the placebo group. Thus, in most cases of tinnitus, antidepressants are not an effective treatment, but in some situations, they can relieve symptoms.
Unfortunately, the side effects of these medications can be severe and impair the quality of life as much, or even more so, than the usual symptoms of tinnitus.
According to the American Tinnitus Association, commonly used antidepressants for tinnitus include:
Clomipramine (Anafranil)
Desipramine (Norpramin)
Imipramine (Tofranil)
Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
Protriptyline (Vivactil)
Anxiolytics for tinnitus
Anxiolytics have been used to alleviate the effects of tinnitus, but they have not been shown to treat tinnitus itself. According to the American Tinnitus Association, research has shown "very limited efficacy in patients without depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder."
This suggests that, like tricyclic antidepressants, these medications are primarily useful for people whose tinnitus is related to a mental or depressive disorder.
Anxiolytics used for tinnitus are not without side effects and can be addictive, according to the Mayo Clinic.
According to the American Tinnitus Association, anxiolytics that may be used to treat tinnitus include:
Alprazolam (Xanax)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Diazepam (Valium)
Lorazepam (Ativan)
In summary
There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating tinnitus, but some treatments can help relieve the symptoms or effects of tinnitus. Tinnitus medications have generally been used primarily in people whose tinnitus is related to a mental or depressive disorder.
If you believe you suffer from tinnitus, consult an ENT doctor and possibly an audiologist for a diagnosis. To learn more, read our article on tinnitus treatments.
