Buspirone is a medication primarily prescribed to manage anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works by influencing certain brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, to help regulate mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Tinnitus, on the other hand, is the perception of sound in one or both ears when no external sound is present. This can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or roaring noises.
Buspirone and Tinnitus Connection
Tinnitus is a reported side effect of buspirone, though it is generally considered rare. While the exact biological mechanism by which buspirone might cause tinnitus is not fully understood, some sources suggest it may possess ototoxic properties, meaning it could potentially affect the auditory or vestibular systems of the ears.
Official drug information lists tinnitus as a possible adverse effect. The prevalence of this side effect is low compared to more common side effects like dizziness, headaches, or nausea.
What to Do if You Experience Tinnitus While on Buspirone
If you begin to experience tinnitus while taking buspirone, it is important to communicate this symptom to your healthcare provider promptly. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abruptly discontinuing anxiety medication can lead to other complications or a worsening of anxiety symptoms. Your doctor can assess your situation and discuss potential adjustments to your treatment plan.
They may consider modifying your buspirone dosage to see if the tinnitus subsides, or they might explore alternative anti-anxiety medications that could be more suitable for you. If tinnitus persists or worsens despite medication adjustments, your healthcare provider might recommend a consultation with an audiologist or an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) for further evaluation and management. These specialists can help determine if there are other contributing factors to your tinnitus and suggest specific interventions.
Other Potential Causes of Tinnitus
Tinnitus can arise from a variety of factors beyond medication. A common cause is hearing loss, whether age-related or noise-induced. Earwax blockages or ear infections can also lead to temporary tinnitus by altering pressure within the ear.
Certain medical conditions, such as Meniere’s disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or blood vessel disorders, can also cause tinnitus. Additionally, other medications, including some antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, and certain antidepressants, can cause tinnitus.