Hydroxychloroquine/Plaquenil and Tinnitus

[Heather_16]

I started hydroxychloroquine about 4 weeks ago for lupus, and have a noticeable increase in tinnitus (ringing in the ears). I had originally tried hydroxychloroquine back in 2017, which lead to onset of tinnitus - when I had stopped taking it, the tinnitus decreased although never fully went away. I decided to try it again this year, and my tinnitus is noticeably louder after starting hydroxychloroquine. Has anyone ever had issues with hydroxychloroquine leading to tinnitus or hearing loss/hearing issues?

[suzannah16]

not sure about hydroxy but my tinnitus started after a long period of steroids. it has never gone away and the volume is up and down all the time.

[Heather_16 in reply to suzannah16]

Yes prednisone has also exacerbated my tinnitus in the past. I am sorry you are also dealing with tinnitus, it definitely is not fun.

[DMM01]

Yes, after being on hydroxy for 15 years I noticed the onset of tinnitus, I tried stopping to see if this would help, but unfortunately it's here to stay. I have learnt to live with it, mine becomes worse if I am stressed or tired.

[Heather_16 in reply to DMM01]

Oh no...yes that was what I was afraid of. I have read studies that hydroxy is an ototoxic drug.