Link between Viagra and Hearing Loss

Ever closely pay attention to the list of quickly-spoken possible side effects during erectile dysfunction (ED) drug commercials? Yep, hearing loss is mentioned in the list of possible side effects and this has been the case since 2007. 

History of Viagra

Viagra a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5i) inhibiter, was initially developed by Pfizer to treat hypertension or high blood pressure by increasing blood flow to the heart. Researchers did not intend for the drug to also increase blood flow to other parts of the body, but it did and patients reported that side effect. This was back in the years 1986-1990. Viagra is now one of the most popular treatments for ED after being approved for this specific use in 1998. During the first 3 months it became available, 2.9 million prescriptions were filled! 

Recent Study

A long-term study published in the Archives of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and conducted at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) shows a relationship between hearing loss and use of Viagra. The problem lies in the fact that the increase is blood flow is not exclusive to the heart and penis only. Therefore, the PDE-5i may also increase blood flow to the ears. Note: this is the first long term study to show a relationship between the drug and hearing loss.

The study was performed by Dr. McGwin between 2003 and 2006. It looked at about 11,500 males older than 40 years. The study found that "men who take Viagra are twice as likely to experience hearing loss than those who don't take PDE-5i drugs." Although the specific mechanism that causes the hearing loss is unknown at this time, it has been hypothesized that an increase in blood flow to the inner ear can cause damage to the hearing system. 

The results of this study cannot be generalized to the other drugs on the market to treat ED, such as Levitra and Cialis since they are not PDE-5i drugs. However, their intention is to also increase blood flow. In my limited clinical experience, I have seen hearing loss caused by ED drugs to present itself as a sudden decrease in a person's ability to hear. 

Hearing Loss Awareness

It is known fact that all medications have potential side effects and as with any medication, it is crucial to be aware of the risks involved and discuss possible side effects with a physician. Having said that, awareness about hearing loss should be put on the radar for those taking ED drugs. 

Individuals can have a basic idea of some symptoms of hearing loss. Some symptoms include, complaining of difficulty hearing in quiet and background noise, experiencing tinnitus or ringing in the ears and people showing concern about your ability to hear. Check out other symptoms at Healthy Hearing. If there are any concerns regarding hearing, consider having a comprehensive hearing test performed by an audiologist and an evaluation by an ENT. It is a good idea to have your hearing checked regularly anyway. 

Via Healthy Hearing

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