Possible Medications that Can Cause Vertigo

Vertigo, light-headedness, or dizziness can be a result from a disorder in the peripheral vestibular system or the structures of the inner ear. Causes of vertigo are varied and some causes are unknown. Here are a few possible causes of vertigo:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) – one of the more common forms of dizziness and may be linked to hearing loss and impaired balance

• Cogan’s syndrome – inflammation of connective tissue in the cornea- may lead to dizziness, ringing in the ear and hearing loss

• Meniere’s disease – ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

• Ototoxicity – toxins in the ear

• Acoustic neuroma – benign growth on vestibular nerve, can cause tinnitus, hearing loss, impaired balance, and dizziness

• Vestibular neuritis – inflammation of the inner ear nerves

• Anxiety

Common medications that have been linked with contributing to inner ear disturbances and ototoxicity are:

• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)

• Antidepressants (e.g., clomipramine, amoxapine)

• Antihypertensives (e.g., labetalol, enalapril)

• Loop diuretics (e.g., bumetanide, furosemide)

• Pain relievers (e.g., aspirin)

• Prescription and over-the-counter cold medicines

• Quinine (e.g., chloroquine, quinidine)

• Anti-biotics

If you are taking any of these medications and notice a change in your balance or start to feel lightheaded, call your primary care physician or neurologist to evaluate your symptoms. For more information call us at Mizuta & Associates for more information regarding specialists in the San Diego area.

Links to more information and details related to vertigo signs and symptoms:

• http://www.healthcommunities.com/vertigo/causes.shtml

• http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/basics/causes/CON-20023004