Hearing Loss: A Side Effect From Taking Viagra

Can Viagra Cause Hearing Loss or Tinnitus?

Over the years, several studies and patient reports have raised concerns about the link between erectile dysfunction medications—especially Viagra—and sudden hearing loss. Most notably, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner reportedly experienced hearing loss prior to his death, which some attributed to long-term Viagra use^[1].

But is there a real connection between PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra and auditory damage? Here’s what the science (and the FDA) say.

What Is the Link Between Viagra and Hearing Loss?

Viagra (generic: sildenafil), along with similar drugs like Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil), belongs to a class of medications called PDE-5 inhibitors. These drugs increase blood flow to treat erectile dysfunction—but that same effect may impact the delicate inner ear structures, potentially leading to a condition known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL)^[2].

SSNHL is a rapid, unexplained loss of hearing—often in one ear—and is considered a medical emergency. In many reported cases, the hearing loss occurred within 24 hours of taking the medication^[3].

What the Research Says

• In 2007, a case report in The Archives of Otolaryngology described a man who experienced hearing loss in both ears shortly after taking Viagra^[4].
• Subsequent studies found that men using PDE-5 inhibitors were nearly twice as likely to report hearing issues as those who did not use these drugs^[5].
• A 2018 analysis of 378,000 men showed a “small but significantly increased risk of sudden hearing loss”^[6].

FDA Warnings

Following mounting evidence, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety warning in 2007^[7], later requiring drug labels to include hearing loss as a potential side effect. The patient label for Viagra now states:

“Sudden loss or decrease in hearing, sometimes with ringing in the ears and dizziness, has been rarely reported in people taking PDE5 inhibitors, including Viagra… If you experience these symptoms, stop taking Viagra and contact a doctor right away.”^[8]

Can Viagra Cause Tinnitus?

Yes, in some cases, users of Viagra and other PDE-5 inhibitors have reported tinnitus—a condition characterized by a persistent ringing, whooshing, or roaring in the ears. Although not everyone experiences it, tinnitus is commonly associated with hearing damage, aging, or circulatory issues—all of which may overlap with how Viagra affects the body^[9].

Other Ototoxic Medications That May Cause Tinnitus

• Pepto-Bismol and other salicylates
• Aspirin and other NSAIDs
• Certain antidepressants
• Antibiotics such as gentamicin and neomycin

If you notice ringing in your ears after taking any new medication, talk to your doctor or a hearing care professional right away.

What Are the Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss?

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), SSNHL is defined as:^[10]

• Sudden loss of hearing in one or both ears
• Symptoms developing either all at once or over the course of a few days
• Often accompanied by tinnitus or a feeling of fullness in the ear

This condition may be temporary, but early treatment is critical. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Can Hearing Aids Help with Tinnitus or Hearing Loss?

In many cases, yes. Modern hearing aids can help reduce the perception of tinnitus by amplifying environmental sounds and masking internal ringing. They can also improve communication and quality of life for those experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss.

If you're experiencing hearing changes, take our free online hearing screening to get started.

Do Other Drugs Cause Hearing Loss?

Viagra isn’t the only medication associated with hearing problems. Other drugs linked to hearing damage include:

• NSAIDs: Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin (especially at high doses)
• Antibiotics: Gentamicin, neomycin, and other aminoglycosides
• Chemotherapy agents: Cisplatin and carboplatin

Always review side effects with your healthcare provider before starting any new prescription.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Viagra-Related Hearing Loss?

First, stop taking the medication and contact your physician immediately. The earlier you receive treatment for SSNHL, the better your chances of recovering at least partial hearing.

Next, schedule a hearing evaluation with a licensed hearing care professional to assess the extent of your hearing loss and explore treatment options.

Not Sure If You’re Experiencing Hearing Loss?

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Additional Resources

1. Reported case of Hugh Hefner’s hearing loss linked to long-term Viagra use (various media reports)
2. Cunningham, L.L., Tucci, D.L. “Hearing loss caused by PDE-5 inhibitors.” Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, 2007
3. FDA Drug Safety Communication: Sudden hearing loss with PDE-5 inhibitors. FDA.gov
4. Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, 2007 case report
5. McGwin, G. et al. Study on hearing loss in PDE-5i users, Archives of Otolaryngology
6. Medical record analysis of 378,000 men, published 2018
7. FDA press release and label updates for Viagra and related medications
8. Patient information label for Viagra, 2023
9. NIDCD: Tinnitus and hearing disorders overview. nidcd.nih.gov
10. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Sudden Deafness. nidcd.nih.gov