Which medication category is associated with alterations in taste and smell and ototoxicity?

Prepare for the Nursing Across the Lifespan Exam 2. Study through flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding of nursing responsibilities and practices from birth to old age. Get exam-ready with focused preparation!

Multiple Choice

Which medication category is associated with alterations in taste and smell and ototoxicity?

Explanation:
Medications in the antibiotic category are associated with both changes in taste and smell and with ototoxicity. Ototoxicity means damage to the inner ear that can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance problems, and it is a well-known risk with certain antibiotics—especially aminoglycosides such as gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin. Taste disturbances, such as a metallic or distorted taste, can also occur with antibiotics. Other drug categories may cause taste changes or dizziness occasionally, but they don’t have the same strong, established link to ear toxicity.

Medications in the antibiotic category are associated with both changes in taste and smell and with ototoxicity. Ototoxicity means damage to the inner ear that can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance problems, and it is a well-known risk with certain antibiotics—especially aminoglycosides such as gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin. Taste disturbances, such as a metallic or distorted taste, can also occur with antibiotics. Other drug categories may cause taste changes or dizziness occasionally, but they don’t have the same strong, established link to ear toxicity.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy