Cisplatin and other chemotherapy drugs

Cisplatin is one of the most effective drugs against solid tumors, with very high cure rates for testicular cancer. However, a study published in the Journal of the Chinese Medical Association documents that up to 77% of treated patients develop irreversible hearing loss.

This drug penetrates the inner ear through specific transporters. The Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine article explains that, once inside, it damages cellular DNA, blocks vital processes, and generates oxidative stress. The result is cell death and cumulative hearing loss.

Other compounds in the same family, such as carboplatin and oxaliplatin, can also damage the ear. However, research published in The Anatomical Record identifies cisplatin as the agent with the greatest potential to damage hearing.

Loop diuretics and their hearing risks

According to the study published in The Anatomical Record, loop diuretics, such as furosemide and bumetanide, are used to treat hypertension and heart disease. Although their ototoxic effects are usually temporary, when combined with aminoglycoside antibiotics, they can cause irreversible damage.

A study published in the American Journal of Audiology reveals that these drugs alter the ionic composition of the endolymph, the fluid of the inner ear, causing imbalances that affect both hearing and balance. Some patients experience tinnitus and dizziness shortly after starting treatment.

The combination of diuretics and chemotherapy drugs further increases the risk, posing a challenge for cancer patients who also require fluid management.