Question
Is tinnitus (ringing in the ears) a side effect?
18 March 2010. Related: All topics, Side effects.
I started combination therapy last month. I take Sustiva (efavirenz) and truvada together at 10pm. Despite the first week, I had no side effects but lately I have experienced ringing in my ears. Is this part of the process?
Answer
Tinnitus is a symptom resulting from a range of underlying causes that may include ear infections, wax in the ear but it can also be a side effect of some medications. Tinnitus is an uncommonly reported side effect of both tenofovir and efavirenz.
There are a number of things that you can do to reduce it including avoiding loud noises, aspirin, nicotine, caffeine and tonic water, which contains quinine. Limiting your salt intake can help as too much salt in your diet restricts the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the ears. Some people find that playing music hides the noise and reduces some of the stress it can cause. I hope this is helpful.
Hi Mandla,
Unfortunately we are not doctors at i-Base. But we do give info about HIV treatment to people who are HIV positive.
Please speak to your doctor about any interaction between your epilepsy and HIV medications and any side effects this might have.
Hi Doc.
I’m taking HIV medications and epilepsy medications. I think I have developed tinnitus, I still have an appointment with ENT doctor. Can this be an effect of my medications?