CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which medication is most likely a potential extrinsic cause of tinnitus?

1. Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic solution

2. Spironolactone 50mg daily

3. Metoprolol 50mg daily

4. Aspirin 325 mg daily

The correct answer is: Aspirin 325 mg daily

Tinnitus, which is often described as a ringing or buzzing in the ears, can arise from various intrinsic or extrinsic factors. Among the medications listed, aspirin is known to have a significant association with tinnitus, particularly when taken in higher doses or used long-term. Aspirin belongs to a class of medications known as salicylates, which can lead to a phenomenon known as salicylate-induced tinnitus. This side effect occurs because aspirin can affect the cochlea in the inner ear, altering the way sound stimuli are perceived. When taken in doses greater than 200 mg per day, it is more likely to induce tonal changes or even the perception of ringing in the ears, thus making it a well-documented extrinsic cause of tinnitus. The other medications listed—ciprofloxacin, spironolactone, and metoprolol—are not typically associated with tinnitus as a common side effect. Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic, spironolactone is a diuretic often used for heart failure or hypertension, and metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly prescribed for cardiovascular conditions. While any medication can potentially lead to side effects in different individuals, aspirin is distinctly recognized in clinical literature for its more prevalent