The most effective treatments for tinnitus include noise-canceling headphones, cognitive-behavioral therapy, ambient music, and lifestyle changes. Medicines cannot cure tinnitus, but in some cases they can help reduce the severity of symptoms or complications. To help relieve symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to treat an underlying condition or to help treat the anxiety and depression that often accompany tinnitus. While medications cannot cure tinnitus, there are some that can suppress the symptoms you are experiencing.
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline, are two of the most commonly prescribed medications. If you are experiencing severe tinnitus, one of these medications may be used. However, it's important to know that these medications can have side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and heart problems. Talk to your doctor about any other conditions you have or medications you are currently taking.
Niravam and Xanax may also be prescribed, but each of these medications can cause drowsiness and nausea, and can be habit-forming. There is no single drug that works in all patients with tinnitus. Some of the available antidepressants and anxiolytics are useful for certain tinnitus patients; however, more research is needed in this area. Acoustic therapy and extensive counseling are used to treat patients with tinnitus.
