Can Unasyn (Ampicillin/Sulbactam) cause vertigo?

Can Unasyn Cause Vertigo?

Yes, Unasyn (ampicillin/sulbactam) can potentially cause vertigo as an adverse effect, though it is not among the most commonly reported side effects for this medication. 1

Mechanism and Risk Factors

• Vertigo from antibiotics like Unasyn may occur through various mechanisms, including vestibular toxicity or as part of a broader adverse reaction profile 2
• Antibiotics are among several medication classes that have been documented to cause vertigo or dizziness as adverse drug reactions 2
• The risk may be increased in certain populations:
  • Patients with pre-existing vestibular disorders 3
  • Elderly patients 2
  • Patients with renal impairment (as drug clearance may be affected) 4

Clinical Considerations

• Vertigo symptoms from medication typically present as:

  • Sensation of spinning or movement 4
  • May be accompanied by nausea or balance problems 3
  • Can affect patient mobility and increase fall risk 2

• Vertigo from antibiotics like Unasyn is generally reversible upon discontinuation of the medication 3

• It's important to distinguish drug-induced vertigo from other causes:

  • Peripheral vertigo (inner ear disorders) 5
  • Central vertigo (CNS disorders) 5
  • Psychogenic vertigo 3

Management Recommendations

• If a patient develops vertigo while taking Unasyn:

  • Evaluate the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning 2
  • Consider the risk-benefit ratio of continuing the antibiotic versus changing to an alternative 3
  • In severe cases, discontinuation of Unasyn and switching to a different class of antibiotics may be necessary 2

• For mild vertigo symptoms that don't significantly impact functioning:

  • Completing the antibiotic course may be appropriate with monitoring 3
  • Vestibular suppressant medications may be used temporarily if needed 4

• Avoid combining Unasyn with other medications known to cause vertigo or ototoxicity, as this may increase the risk of vestibular symptoms 4

Prevention and Monitoring

• Before prescribing Unasyn:

  • Take a thorough medication history to identify patients who have previously experienced vertigo with antibiotics 2
  • Consider baseline vestibular function in high-risk patients 6

• During treatment:

  • Monitor for early signs of vestibular dysfunction 6
  • Educate patients to report symptoms of dizziness or vertigo promptly 2

• Reporting of vertigo as an adverse drug reaction is important but likely underreported in clinical practice 2

While vertigo is not listed among the most common side effects of Unasyn, it falls within the broader category of potential adverse reactions that can occur with antibiotic therapy. Clinicians should be aware of this possibility, especially in vulnerable populations.