Drug-induced hearing loss is characteristically associated with tinnitus and vertigo. It results from damage to the sound-sensitive hair cells of the inner ear, and leads to degeneration of the nerves that supply them.Important causes include: aminoglycoside antibiotics such as streptomycin, and cisplatin and certain other antineoplastic agents. Loop diuretics, quinine and its derivatives, and salicylates are also well-known causes of hearing loss.