Reasearch has been released suggesting that taking OTC [Over the Counter] tablets that contain ibuprofin, the common ingredient in Advil and Motrin, may cause hearing loss in men under the age of 50 when used as a part of long-term regimens.
The article urges that one should not discontinue use of OTC medications, especially if the regimen is instated by a doctor. More testing is necessary to understand the full scope of these findings, but it has been shown as a possible, preventable cause of hearing loss. Of course, before beginning any type of medication schedule a doctor should be consulted; thus, you will be able to weigh the pros and cons of long-term OTC useage.
This study was only done concerning men: women have a different rate of hearing loss than their male counterparts and more studies need to occur in order to understand the effects in both sexes. As well, this study was in regards to long-term useage and not at all with ibuprofin as a short-term pain reliever [so don't raid your medicine cabinent, throw your Advil away, and contend with the force of massive headaches].