Does Pristiq cause ringing in the ears? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) can cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears). We will also discuss some research studies, on who is more likely to experience tinnitus and what one should do if this side effect occurs.
Does Pristiq cause ringing in the ears?
Yes, Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) may cause ringing in the ears. However, this is not a common side effect and the incidence is low.
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears is an uncomfortable buzzing sound in the ear that can be stressful for many patients. It is not necessarily caused by antidepressants; certain underlying factors may also contribute such as hearing problems and ear wax accumulation etc.
Pristiq a brand for Desvenlafaxine works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their levels to regulate mood and emotions in individuals (1).
If you notice any unusual symptoms like ringing in the ears while taking Pristiq or any other antidepressant like Effexor, Celexa, Sertraline, etc it is crucial to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
What does research suggest?
Tinnitus is a rare side effect of Pristiq. Therefore, limited research has been conducted on the direct relationship between tinnitus and Pristiq. One study indicated that more individuals reported experiencing tinnitus while taking Desvenlafaxine compared to those taking a placebo (2).
However, tinnitus can be experienced by patients after discontinuation of Pristiq as a withdrawal symptom (3).
Tinnitus does not affect everyone, as people respond differently to medications. However, some studies have indicated that antidepressants can actually be used to manage tinnitus triggered by anxiety or depression (4).
How to know if you have Pristiq-induced ringing in the ears?
If you suspect Pristiq-induced tinnitus, consult your healthcare provider. They may assess your symptoms through a physical examination, to determine the nature and potential cause of your tinnitus.
Pristiq-induced tinnitus may appear as a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears. The ringing sound may be continuous or intermittent, and its intensity can vary. Discuss your symptoms with your doctor and inform them when the ringing in the ears started and how long it persists.
If it coincides with the initiation or change in your Pristiq medication, it could be related. Always remember, that self-diagnosis of Pristiq-induced ringing in the ears can be challenging, and it is important to seek medical advice if you suspect any symptoms of tinnitus while taking Pristiq for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
What are the factors influencing Pristiq-induced tinnitus?
The development of tinnitus as a side effect of Pristiq can be influenced by several factors, including:
Dosage and duration: Higher doses and prolonged use of Pristiq may be more likely to cause tinnitus.
Individual susceptibility: Some individuals may be more sensitive to the medication and prone to experiencing tinnitus.
Underlying medical conditions: Pre-existing ear or hearing issues may increase the risk of tinnitus with Pristiq.
Interaction with other medications: If an individual is taking other medications that are ototoxic and have a higher risk of causing tinnitus, such as aspirin, then taking Pristiq with such medications increases the risk of tinnitus (5).
Can you use Pristiq when using a hearing device?
If you are using a hearing device for a pre-existing hearing issue, you should use Pristiq only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
While Pristiq is generally indicated for mental health disorders, there is a need for caution, especially if the person already has hearing concerns. Individuals with hearing issues may be more susceptible to changes in auditory perception or tinnitus while using Pristiq.
It is important to openly discuss your concerns and all existing health conditions or medications you are taking, with your healthcare provider, to receive individualized treatment tailored to your needs.
What to do if Pristiq causes ringing in your ears?
If you develop tinnitus after Pristiq, contact your healthcare provider. Your doctor may adjust your Pristiq dosage or recommend an alternative medication that does not cause tinnitus.
Always remember, do not discontinue the medication on your own as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms further worsening your condition.
If the tinnitus becomes bothersome, your doctor may consider noise-reducing devices or other strategies for symptomatic relief. Removing excess ear wax and practising stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation can help you cope with tinnitus.
A few therapies can also ease your symptoms with tinnitus such as tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Based on my knowledge and experience, individuals rarely report tinnitus associated with Pristiq. However, individual responses to medications vary. If you experience tinnitus or any other side effect of Pristiq, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.
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References
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Potential-SEs-of-desvenlafaxine-Pristiq.pdfhttps://simpleandpractical.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Potential-SEs-of-desvenlafaxine-Pristiq.pdf
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