Ototoxicity occurs when a substance is toxic to the function of the cochlea, auditory nerve or vestibular system. An ototoxic effect can cause loss of hearing and imbalance. Many drugs may have an ototoxic effect. Antibiotics in the aminoglycoside group have a known risk of ototoxicity. Other medications include loop diuretics, some chemotherapy drugs and NSAIDs. Patients on long term use of these medications are usually referred for regular auditory testing to assess any new issues with ototoxicity.
