Pharmacological agents with effects on voice

Abstract

Pharmacological agents with the most notable effects on voice exert their influences on the vocal tract through the autonomic nervous system. These agents do not have a profound effect on laryngeal function. Their effects are subtle, but they are important in certain groups of patients, such as professional voice users. It is essential to take a thorough history of medications being used, both by prescription and nonprescription, when evaluating patients with voice disorders. It is also important to keep in mind that idiosyncratic variations may occur in response to medications, and careful monitoring is essential when patients with voice disorders are under treatment. The importance of adequate water intake should be emphasized for general hydration and for vocal tract lubrication. Understanding the autonomic nervous system and how it is influenced by pharmacological agents makes evaluating the effect of medicines on the vocal tract simpler.