| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Generic Name | Drug Group | Effect on Voice |
| Accolate | Zeneca | Zafirlukast | antiasthmatic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Accupril | Parke-Davis | Quinapril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Acetaminophen/ Codeine | various | Acetaminophen/ Codeine | narcotic analgesic | Narcotics may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to narcotic use. |
| Adalat CC | Bayer Pharm | Nifedipine | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Adderall | Shire Rchwd | Amphetamine Mixed Salts | central nervous system stimulant | Adderall may have a drying effect on vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Albuterol Aerosol | various | Albuterol | antiasthmatic/ bronchodilator |
Inhaled bronchodilators sometimes dry or irritate tissues in the mouth and throat and may lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngititis. Dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules, as well. |
| Alesse 28 | Wyeth-Ayerst | Levonorgestrel/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Allegra | Hoech Mar R | Fexofenadine | antihistamine | Antihistamines have a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Allopurinol | various | Allopurinol | antigout | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Alprazolam | various | Alprazolam | antianxiety/ benzodiazepine | Less than 1% of patients who take benzodiazepines experience slurred speech and symptoms of dysarthria (slow, uncoordinated speech). |
| Altace | Hoech Marion Roussel | Ramipril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Amaryl | Hoech Mar R | Glimepiride | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Ambien | Searle | Zolpidem | sedative/ hypnotic | The use of sedatives may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to sedative use. |
| Amitriptyline | various | Amitriptyline | tricyclic antidepressant | Tricyclic antidepressants may affect coordination, including the speech production system. Slow or slurred speech may be observed. They also have a drying effect on vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Amoxicillin | various | Amoxicillin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Aricept | Eisai | Donepezil | cholinergic function enhancer for Alzheimer's patients | Infrequent voice and speech effects may include include tongue edema (swelling), pharyngitis (sore throat) and bronchitis. |
| Arthrotec | Searle | Diclofenac/ Misoprostol |
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory | Those who use their voices rigorously should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Atenolol | various | Atenolol | cardiovascular - beta blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Atrovent Inhaler | Boehringer lngelheim | Ipratropium | antiasthmatic/ antiallergy |
Inhaled antiasthmatic medications sometimes dry or irritate tissues in the mouth and throat and may lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngititis. Dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules, as well. |
| Augmentin | SmithKline Beecham | Amoxicillin/ Clavulanate | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Avapro | Bristol-Myers Squibb | Irbesartan | ACE Inhibitor | Although excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage, this effect has NOT been associated with Avapro. |
| Axid | Lilly | Nizatidine | gastrointestinal H2 antihistamine | Two effects exist: 1) the antihistamine component has a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules; 2) however, this medication may benefit the voice if it is taken to reduce gastro-esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Azmacort | Rhn-Plnc Rr | Triamcinolone aerosol | antiasthmatic/ steroid (inhaled) | Patients using inhaled steroids sometimes experience significant voice changes (including complete loss of voice). The onset of symptoms and severity of symptoms is highly variable among patients. Studies show that discontinuation of inhaled steroids restores the voice in dysphonic patients, but symptoms may not resolve immediately. |
| Bactroban | SmithKline Beecham | Mupirocin | topical antibacterial | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Biaxin | Abbott | Clarithromycin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| BuSpar | Bristol-Myers Squibb | Buspirone | antianxiety | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Cardizem CD | Hoech Mar R | Diltiazem | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Cardura | Pfizer | Doxazosin | cardiovascular - alpha blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Carisoprodol | various | Carisoprodol | muscle relaxant | The use of sedatives may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to sedative use. |
| Ceftin | Glaxo Wellcome | Cefuroxime | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Cefzil | Bristol-Myers Squibb | Cefprozil | antibiotic | |
| Celexa | Forest Pharm | Citalopram | antidepressant | Increased cough and gastroesophageal reflux have been reported, both of which can adversely affect the voice. Rarely, asthma, laryngitis, bronchospasm or sputum increase may occur. |
| Cephalexin | various | Cephalexin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Cimetidine | various | Cimetidine | gastrointestinal - H2 antihistamine | Two effects exist: 1) the antihistamine component has a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules; 2) however, this medication may benefit the voice if it is taken to reduce gastro-esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Cipro | Bayer Pharm | Ciprofloxacin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Claritin, Claritin D 12HR, Claritin D 24HR | Schering | Loratadine or Loratidine/Pseudoephedrine | antihistamine | Antihistamines have a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Climara | Berlex | Estradiol | hormone - estrogen/ topical | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Clonazepam | various | Clonazepam | anticonvulsant | Anticonvulsants may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to their use. |
| Clonidine | various | Clonidine | antihypertensive | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Combivent | Boehr Ingel | Ipratropium/Albuterol | antiasthmatic/bronchodilator | Inhaled bronchodilators sometimes dry or irritate tissues in the mouth and throat and may lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngititis. Dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules, as well. |
| Coumadin | Dupont | Warfarin | anticoagulant | Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Cozaar | Merck | Losartan | cardiovascular angiotension II antagonist | An infrequently-reported adverse reaction is coughing, which in turn, may cause hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Cyclobenzaprine | various | Cyclobenzaprine | muscle relaxant | The use of sedatives may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to sedative use. This medication may also have a drying effect on vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Cycrin | ESI Lederle | Medroxy- progesterone | hormone - progestin | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Daypro | Searle | Oxaprozin | nonsteroidal antiinflammatory |
Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Deltasone | Pharmacia/ Upjohn | Prednisone | antiinflammatory/ steroid | Deltasone's effect is advantageous when used to shrink swollen vocal tissues, although patients taking Deltasone should be carefully monitored by a physician. It is not advised for patients with vocal fold ulcers, hemorrhages, or acute laryngitis. |
| Depakote | Abbott | Divalproex | anticonvulsant | Anticonvulsants may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to their use. |
| Desogen | Organon | Desogestrel /EthinylEstradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Diazepam | various | Diazepam | antianxiety/ benzodiazepine | Less than 1% of patients who take benzodiazepines experience slurred speech and symptoms of dysarthria (slow, uncoordinated speech). |
| Diflucan | Pfizer | Fluconazole | antifungal | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Dilantin | Parke-Davis | Phenytoin | anticonvulsant | Slurred speech and other speech coordination tasks are possible adverse reactions to Dilantin use. |
| Diovan | Novartis | Valsartan | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Dyazide | SmithKline Beecham | Hydrochlorothiazide/ Triamterine | diuretic combination | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Effexor | Wyeth-Ayerst | Venlafaxine | antidepressant | Effexor may have a drying effect on the body, including vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Elocon | Schering | Mometasone | topical steroid | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Endocet | Endo | Oxycodone/APAP | narcotic analgesic | Narcotics may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to narcotic use. |
| Ery-Tab | Abbott | Erythromycin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Estrace | B-M Squibb | Estradiol | hormone - estrogen | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Estraderm | Novartis | Estradiol | hormone - estrogen/ patch | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Estradiol | various | Estradiol | hormone - estrogen | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Flomax | Abbott | Tamsulosin | benign prostatic hypertrophy agent | Rarely, use of Flomax may cause pharyngitis (sore throat) or increased cough. Excessive coughing may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Flonase | Glaxo Wellcome | Fluticasone | steroid decongestant (nasal spray) | Throat irritation and dryness, cough, hoarseness and voice changes are all possible adverse reactions. |
| Flovent | Glaxo Wellcome | Fluticasone Propionate | steroid decongestant (oral) | |
| Folic Acid | Schein | Folic Acid | Vitamin/mineral supplement | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Fosamax | Merck | Alendronate | osteoporosis agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Furosemide | various | Furosemide | loop diuretic | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Gemfibrozil | various | Gemfibrozil | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Glipizide | various | Glipizide | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Glucophage | B-M Squibb | Metformin | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Glucotrol XL | Pfizer | Glipizide | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Glyburide | various | Glyburide | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Guaifenesin | various | Guaifenesin | expectorant | Guaifenesin may have a beneficial effect on vocal tissues, as it helps keep vocal folds well-hydrated when used with plenty of water intake. |
| Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R | Lilly | Human Insulin | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | various | Hydrochlorothiazide | thiazide diuretic | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Hydrocodone w/APAP | various | Hydrocodone w/APAP | narcotic analgesic | Narcotics may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to narcotic use. |
| Hytrin | Abbott | Terazosin | cardiovascular - alpha blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Hyzaar | Merck | Losartan/HCTZ | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor thiazide diuretic | Two adverse reactions are possible: 1) excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage; and 2) the diuretic component may have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Ibuprofen | various | Ibuprofen | nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory |
Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Imitrex | Glaxo Wellcome | Sumatriptan | antimigrainous agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Isosorbide Mononitrate |
various | Isosorbide Mononitrate | antianginal | Voice-related effects may occur, including vocal tissue dryness (which, in addition to irritation effects, may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules). Bronchitis, bronchospasm and pharyngitis (sore throat) are other possible effects. |
| K-Dur-20 | Schering | Potassium Chloride | potassium supplement | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Klor-Con | Upsher-Smith | Potassium Chloride | potassium supplement | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Lamisil | Novartis | Terbinafine | antifungal | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Lanoxin | Glaxo Wellcome | Digoxin | cardiovascular - inotropic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Lasix | Hoech Mar R | Furosemide | loop diuretic | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Lescol | Novartis | Fluvastatin | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Levaquin | Ortho Pharm | Levofloxacin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Levoxyl | Jones Pharma | Levothyroxine | hormone - thyroid | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Lipitor | Parke-Davis | Atorvastatin | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Lo/Ovral 28 | Wyeth-Ayerst | Norgestrel/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Loestrin-FE 1.5/30 | Parke-Davis | Norethindrone/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Loestrin-Fe 1/20 | Parke-Davis | Norethindrone/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Lorabid | Lilly | Loracarbef | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Lorazepam | various | Lorazepam | antianxiety/ benzodiazepine | Less than 1% of patients who take benzodiazepines experience slurred speech and symptoms of dysarthria (slow, uncoordinated speech). |
| Lotensin | Novartis | Benazepril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Lotrel | Novartis | Amlodipine/ Benazepril | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker/ ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Lotrisone | Schering | Clotrimoxazole/ Betamethasone | topical antifungal | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Macrobid | Procter & Gamble | Nitrofurantoin | antibacterial | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with its use. It should be noted, however, that abuse of this agent can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Medroxy progesterone | various | Medroxy progesterone | hormone - progestin | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Methyl prednisolone | various | Methyl prednisolone | antiinflammatory/ steroid | Methyl prednisolone's effects are beneficial when used to shrink swollen vocal tissues, although patients taking it should be carefully monitored by a physician. It is not advised for patients with vocal fold ulcers, hemorrhages, or acute laryngitis. |
| Metoprolol Tartrate | various | Metoprolol | cardiovascular - beta blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Mevacor | Merck | Lovastatin | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Miacalcin Nasal | Novartis | Calcitonin Salmon | osteoporosis agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Monopril | Bristol-Myers Squibb | Fosinopril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Naproxen | various | Naproxen | nonsteroidal antiinflammatory |
Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Nasonex | Schering | Mometasone | steroid decongestant nasal spray | Throat irritation and dryness, cough, hoarseness and voice changes are all possible adverse reactions. Rarely, oral or nasal candidiasis may occur. |
| Necon 1/35 | Watson Lab | Norethindrone/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Neomycin/ Polymx/HC | various | Neomycin/ Polymx/HC | topical antibiotic - steroid combo | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Neurontin | Parke-Davis | Gabapentin | anticonvulsant | Neurotonin may have a drying effect on the body, including vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Nitrostat | Parke-Davis | Nitroglycerin | antianginal | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Norvasc | Pfizer | Amlodipine | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Ortho Tri-Cyclen | Ortho Pharm | Norgestimate/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Ortho-Cept | Ortho Pharm | Desogestrel/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Ortho-Cyclen | Ortho Pharm | Norgestimate/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Ortho-Novum 7/7/7 | Ortho Pharm | Norethindrone/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Oxycodone/ Acetaminophen |
Mallinckrodt | Oxycodone/APAP | analgesic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Oxycontin | Purdue | Oxycodone | analgesic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Paxil | SmithKline Beecham | Paroxetine | antidepressant | Paxil may have a drying effect on the body, including vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Penicillin VK | various | Penicillin VK | antibotic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Pepcid | Merck | Famotidine | gastrointestinal - H2 antagonist | Pepcid has a favorable effect on the voice in that it reduces esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Phenergan Supp | Wyeth-Ayerst | Promethazine | antihistamine | Antihistamines have a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Plavix | Sanofi | Clopidogrel | platelet aggregation inhibitor | Those who use their voices rigorously should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. Bronchitis and coughing may occur; excess coughing may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Plendil | Astra | Felodipine SR | cardiovascular calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Potassium Chloride | various | Potassium Chloride | potassium supplement | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Pravachol | B-M Squibb | Pravastatin | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Prednisone | various | Prednisone | antiinflammatory/ steroid | Prednisone's effect is beneficial when used to shrink swollen vocal tissues, although patients taking it must be carefully monitored by a physician. It is not advised for patients with vocal fold ulcers, hemorrhages, or acute laryngitis. |
| Premarin | Wyeth-Ayerst | Conjugated Estrogens | hormone - estrogen | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Prempro | Wyeth-Ayerst | Conj. Estrogens/ Medroxyprogesterone | hormone - estrogen/progestin | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Prevacid | Tap Pharm | Lansoprazole | gastrointestinal - antisecretory | These agents have a favorable effect on the voice in that they reduce esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Prilosec | Astra | Omeprazole | gastrointestinal - antisecretory | |
| Prinivil | Merck | Lisinopril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Procardia XL | Pfizer | Nifedipine | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Promethazine tabs | various | Promethazine | antihistamine | Antihistamines have a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Propacet 100 | Teva Pharm | Propoxyphene N/APAP | narcotic analgesic | Narcotics may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to narcotic use. |
| Propoxyphene N/APAP | various | Propoxyphene N/APAP | narcotic analgesic | |
| Propranolol LA | various | Propranolol LA | cardiovascular - beta blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Propulsid | Janssen | Cisapride | gastrointestinal stimulant | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Provera | Pharmacia/ Upjohn | Medroxy progesterone | hormone - progestin | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Prozac | Lilly | Fluoxetine | antidepressant | Prozac may have a drying effect on the body, including vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Ranitidine | various | Ranitidine | gastrointestinal H2 antihistamine | Two effects exist: 1) the antihistamine component has a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules; 2) however, this medication may benefit the voice if it is taken to reduce gastro-esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Relafen | SmithKline Beecham | Nabumetone | nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory |
Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Retin-A | Ortho Derm | Tretinoin | topical acne agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Rezulin | Parke-Davis | Troglitazone | antidiabetic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Rhinocort | Astra | Budesonide | steroid nasal spray | Throat irritation and dryness, cough, hoarseness and voice changes are all possible adverse reactions. Rarely, oral or nasal candidiasis may occur. |
| Risperdal | Janssen | Risperidone | antipsychotic | Risperdal may have adverse effects on speech, including difficulty in articulating words. |
| Roxicet | Roxane | Oxycodone/APAP | narcotic analgesic | Narcotics may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to narcotic use. |
| Serevent | Glaxo Wellcome | Salmeterol | antiasthmatic/ bronchodilator |
Inhaled bronchodilators sometimes dry or irritate tissues in the mouth and throat and may lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngititis. Dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules, as well. |
| Serzone | Bristol-Myers Squibb | Nefazodone | antidepressant | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Singulair | Schein | Montelukast | antiasthmatic maintenance | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Sumycin | Apothecon | Tetracycline HCL | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Synthroid | Knoll | Levothyroxine | hormone - thyroid | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Tamoxifen | various | Tamoxifen | antineoplastic/ antiestrogen | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Temazepam | various | Temazepam | hypnotic/ benzodiazepine | The use of sedatives may produce an uninhibited or diminished drive to speak. Symptoms of dysarthria (slow, slurred and uncoordinated speech movements) may also be linked to sedative use. |
| Tiazac | Forest | Diltiazem | cardiovascular-calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Timoptic XE | Merck | Timolol | antiglaucoma agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Tobradex | Alcon Lab | Tobramycin/ Dexamethasone | ophthalmic antibiotic drop | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Toprol-XL | Astra | Metoprolol | cardiovascular - beta blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Trazodone | Sidmak | Trazodone | antidepressant | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Tri-Levlen | Berlex | L-Norgestrel/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone - oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Triamterene/HCTZ | various | Triamterene/ HCTZ |
diuretic combination | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Trimethoprim/Sulfa | various | Trimeth/Sulfameth | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Trimox | Apothecon | Amoxicillin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush.. |
| Triphasil | Wyeth-Ayerst | L-Norgestrel/ Ethinyl Estradiol | hormone oral contraceptive | The use of oral contraceptives has not been shown to significantly affect female voices. |
| Ultram | McNeil | Tramadol | analgesic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Vancenase AQ DS | Schering | Beclomethasone | nasal decongestant | Sore throat, cough, and rarely, perforation of the nasal septum, are possible adverse effects. |
| Vasotec | Merck | Enalapril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Veetids | Apothecon | Penicillin VK | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Verapamil SR | various | Verapamil | cardiovascular - calcium channel blocker | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Viagra | Pfizer | Sildenafil Citrate | peripheral vasodilator | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Vioxx | Merck | Rofecoxib | nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory | Infrequently, this agent may cause acid reflux or cough, both of which may lead to vocal tissue damage. |
| Warfarin | Barr | Warfarin | anticoagulant | Vocal performers, particularly, should be cautious about using medications that decrease platelet function during periods of strenuous voicing demands, due to an increased possibility of vocal fold hemorrhage. |
| Wellbutrin SR | Glaxo Wellcome | Bupropion HCL | antidepressant | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Xalatan | Pharmacia/ Upjohn | Latanoprost | antiglaucoma agent | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Xanax | Pharmacia/ Upjohn | Alprazolam | antianxiety/ benzodiazepine | Less than 1% of patients who take benzodiazepines experience slurred speech and symptoms of dysarthria (slow, uncoordinated speech). |
| Zantac | Glaxo Wellcome | Ranitidine | gastrointestinal H2 antihistamine | Two effects exist: 1) the antihistamine component has a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. 2) however, this medication may benefit the voice if it is taken to reduce gastro-esophageal reflux. Uncontrolled spillage of stomach acids into the larynx is harmful to delicate vocal fold tissues. |
| Zestoretic | Zeneca | Lisinopril/HCTZ | cardiovascular - antihypertensive | Two adverse reactions are possible: 1) excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage; and 2) the diuretic component may have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Zestril | Zeneca | Lisinopril | cardiovascular - ACE inhibitor | Excessive coughing has been associated with the use of ACE inhibitors, which in turn, may lead to hoarseness and possible vocal tissue damage. |
| Ziac | Wyeth- Ayerest | Bisoprolol/HCTZ | cardiovascular - antihypertensive | Diuretics have a drying effect on mucous membranes, including those used for speaking and singing. Hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis are possible symptoms. In addition to irritation effects, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |
| Zithromax and Zithromax Susp | Pfizer | Azithromycin | antibiotic | In general, no effects on voice or speech mechanisms are associated with antibiotic use. It should be noted, however, that antibiotic abuse can lead to an overgrowth of candida in the body, possibly leading to laryngeal thrush. |
| Zocor | Merck | Simvastatin | antihyperlipidemic | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Zoloft | Pfizer | Sertraline | antidepressant | Zoloft may have a drying effect on the body, including vocal fold tissues, which can lead to hoarseness, soreness, voice changes or laryngitis. Additionally, dry vocal tissues may be more prone to injuries such as nodules. |
| Zyban | Glaxo Wellcome | Bupropion HCL SR | antidepressant | No effects on voice or speech mechanisms have been reported. |
| Zyprexa | Lilly | Olanzapine | psychotropic agent | Infrequent effects may include coughing, pharyngitis (sore throat), or (non-defined) voice alteration. |
| Zyrtec | Pfizer | Cetirizine | antihistamine | Antihistamines have a drying effect on mucous membranes that may cause hoarseness, sore throat, voice changes or laryngitis. In addition to irritation, dry vocal folds may be more prone to injuries, such as nodules. |