How Medications Can Affect Your Voice: A Singer's Guide

Have you been wondering how much your medications may or may not be affecting your voice? This list is for you! As a singer, your voice is your instrument, and taking care of it is crucial for maintaining your vocal health and performance. As a coach, I often forget to mention (aside from antihistamines) how medications can affect your voice when we are diagnosing the source of vocal cord health problems. While medications can provide relief for various health issues, some of them can have unintended side effects on the mucosal lining of your vocal cords. Understanding how these medications can affect your voice is essential for maintaining optimal vocal health and performance. I did some research this week and here’s a good list of medications and what they do:

1. Antihistamines: (diphenhydramine, loratadine)

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies and cold symptoms, but they can also dry out the mucosal lining on your vocal cords. This can lead to a hoarse or raspy voice, making it more difficult to sing with clarity and control. If you need to take antihistamines, consider using a humidifier or vocal steamer to help keep your vocal cords hydrated.

2. Decongestants: (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine)

Decongestants are often used to relieve nasal congestion, but they can also have a drying effect on the mucosal lining of your vocal cords. This can make it harder to produce clear and resonant sounds while singing. If you must take a decongestant, be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine, which can further dehydrate your vocal cords.

3. Anticholinergics: (ipratropium)

Anticholinergics are medications that block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in vocal cord lubrication. This can result in dryness and irritation of the vocal cords, leading to vocal fatigue and decreased vocal range. If you are prescribed an anticholinergic medication, talk to your doctor about potential alternatives or strategies to mitigate its effects on your voice.

4. Opioids: (codeine, morphine)

Opioids are powerful pain relievers that can have a sedating effect on the central nervous system, including the muscles involved in vocal production. This can lead to a decrease in vocal stamina and control, making it harder to sing for extended periods or hit high notes with precision. If you are taking opioids, be mindful of their potential impact on your voice and consider working with a vocal coach or speech therapist to help maintain your vocal skills. Sign up for lessons on the link below!

5. Diuretics: (furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)

Diuretics are medications that increase urine production and can lead to dehydration in the body, including the mucosal lining of the vocal cords. Dehydration can cause the vocal cords to become stiff and less pliable, resulting in a strained or hoarse voice. To counteract the drying effects of diuretics, be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption.

6. Antipsychotics (haloperidol, risperidone)

Antipsychotic medications can affect the voice in several ways. One common side effect of antipsychotics is dry mouth, which can lead to vocal dryness and irritation. Dry mouth can make it difficult to produce saliva, which is important for keeping the vocal cords lubricated and functioning properly.

Additionally, antipsychotics can cause muscle stiffness and tremors, which can affect the muscles involved in voice production. This can result in changes in vocal quality, pitch, and volume. Some individuals may experience difficulty controlling their voice or speaking clearly while taking antipsychotic medications.

Vocal warm-up exercises, hydration, and speech therapy may also be beneficial in improving voice quality while taking antipsychotics.

7. Antidepressants (amitriptyline, fluoxetine)

Antidepressants can potentially affect the voice in several ways. One common side effect of antidepressant medications is dry mouth, which can lead to vocal dryness and irritation. Dry mouth can make it difficult to produce saliva, which is important for keeping the vocal cords lubricated and functioning properly.

Additionally, antidepressants can cause changes in muscle tone and coordination, which can impact the muscles involved in voice production. This can result in changes in vocal quality, pitch, and volume. Some individuals may experience hoarseness, difficulty speaking, or changes in their ability to control their voice while taking antidepressants.

8. Beta-blockers (propranolol, metoprolol)

Beta blockers can potentially dry out the voice by decreasing saliva production. Saliva is essential for keeping the vocal cords lubricated and preventing them from becoming dry and irritated. When saliva production is decreased, the vocal cords may become dry and stiff, leading to hoarseness, difficulty speaking, and changes in vocal quality. Additionally, beta blockers can cause a sensation of dryness in the mouth and throat, which can further contribute to vocal dryness. It is important to stay hydrated and use vocal warm-up exercises to help counteract these effects when taking beta blockers.

Conclusion:

As a singer, it's important to be mindful of the medications you are taking and how they may affect your voice. If you are experiencing vocal changes or difficulties while taking medication, don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider or a vocal specialist for guidance. By understanding the potential effects of medications on your voice and taking proactive steps to mitigate them, you can help ensure that your vocal performance remains strong and healthy.