What’s the Connection Between Antidepressants and Hair Loss?

Why do some antidepressants cause hair loss?

Hair loss from antidepressants is not very common but can be very distressing.

The type of hair loss most commonly caused by antidepressants is called telogen effluvium. It happens when hair prematurely enters the hair growth cycle’s resting, or telogen, phase. As a result, the number of hair follicles growing hair decreases.

Experts don’t fully understand the exact mechanism behind this, but antidepressants can potentially disrupt the hair growth cycle. Physiological stress that antidepressants can place on your body can trigger telogen effluvium. This form of hair loss is usually temporary, and hair growth typically resumes once the body adjusts to the medication. Sometimes, you might need to stop or switch medications to prevent hair loss.

List of antidepressants that cause hair loss

Certain types of antidepressants are more likely to cause hair loss than others. Here’s a list of some of the medications that can cause hair loss

• Fluoxetine (Prozac): Prozac is one of the most common selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It’s also one of the most common SSRIs to cause hair loss. According to a 2022 review, 38% of people taking Prozac experienced some degree of hair loss.
• Sertraline (Zoloft): Zoloft is another SSRI that can sometimes cause hair loss. In the same 2022 publication, about 28% of people taking Zoloft had this side effect.
• Other SSRIs: SSRIs, like citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluvoxamine (Luvox), and paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva), can also cause hair loss, but it’s not as common as with Prozac or Zoloft. In the 2022 review mentioned above, paroxetine had the lowest frequency of hair loss (less than 6%).
• Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Medical professionals often prescribe Wellbutrin for depression and to help people quit smoking. According to a 2018 study, it has some of the highest rates of hair loss among antidepressants.
• Lamotrigine (Lamictal): People take Lamictal for bipolar disorder or epilepsy. According to a 2023 review, although not very common, hair loss caused by Lamictal is significant enough to make some people stop taking it.
• Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It’s used for depression, anxiety, and certain types of pain. It can sometimes cause thinning hair.
• Other SNRIs: Venlafaxine (Effexor) and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq, Khedezla) can sometimes cause hair loss. People take them to treat major depression.

Is hair loss from antidepressant use reversible?

Hair loss caused by antidepressants is usually reversible. Once you stop or switch the medication, your hair growth typically reverts to its typical cycle. However, this can take several months. During this time, new hair growth might be slow, so patience is key.

Keep in mind that discontinuing antidepressants abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and a return of your mental health condition’s symptoms. Always consult your prescribing healthcare professional before stopping any medication. They can guide you through the process and suggest alternative treatments that might not have the same side effects.

Can you prevent or stop hair loss from antidepressants?

Let’s discuss some steps you can take to prevent or treat hair loss due to antidepressants.

• Switching medications: If one antidepressant causes hair loss, your doctor might recommend switching to another that doesn’t have this side effect. They can help you taper off the current medication safely.
• Nutritional support: Sticking to a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support healthy hair growth. Nutrients, like biotin, zinc, and iron, are particularly important for hair health.
• Stress management: Stress can exacerbate hair loss. Finding ways to relax and reduce stress can positively impact both your mental health and hair health.
• Topical treatments: Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, like minoxidil (Rogaine), can promote hair growth.
• Supplements: Taking vitamins and other supplements that promote hair growth might help. However, be sure to discuss any supplements with your prescribing healthcare professional to ensure they won’t interact with your medication or pose other risks.

Antidepressants that don’t cause hair loss

Medication side effects depend on the individual, and it’s difficult to find a medication that will never cause hair loss in anyone. However, according to a 2018 study of over 1 million people, paroxetine had the lowest risk for hair loss. But it’s important to note this medication carries other, more serious risks, like serotonin syndrome.

How to care for your hair while taking antidepressants

Taking good care of your hair while on antidepressants can help minimize hair loss and promote healthy growth. Here are some hair care tips:

• use mild shampoos and conditioners
• avoid harsh chemicals and heated styling tools
• use sulfate-free and paraben-free products to reduce scalp irritation
• trim your hair regularly to prevent breakage
• massage your scalp to help increase blood circulation
• maintain a healthy lifestyle, including:
  • eating a balanced diet
  • getting regular exercise
  • keeping a consistent sleep schedule
  • drinking enough water

Read more about how to make your hair grow faster and stronger.

Takeaway

Antidepressants can be lifesaving for people dealing with mental health issues, but they sometimes come with side effects, like hair loss. If you’re worried about hair loss from antidepressants, be sure to discuss your concerns with a healthcare professional. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and finding a balance between the two is key.