Antidepressants are widely prescribed to manage conditions like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
While effective, these antidepressants can have side effects. Hair loss has been reported by some patients taking antidepressants—particularly with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft (sertraline).
At John Frank MD Hair Clinics, we’re here to help those that suffer from hair loss caused by or linked to antidepressants. If you think you’re one of them, here’s what you need to know:
Linking Antidepressants to Hair Loss
Hair loss associated with medications is often due to a condition called telogen effluvium. This occurs when hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) prematurely, leading to increased shedding.
Several case studies have explored this connection, including:
- Case Study 1 – A 21-year-old male experienced diffuse hair loss two weeks after initiating sertraline. Upon discontinuation, hair regrowth was observed, suggesting a direct link between sertraline and hair loss. (PubMed Central)
- Case Study 2 – A 14-year-old male developed hair loss after five years on sertraline. After stopping the medication, hair loss ceased, indicating that even long-term use can trigger this side effect. (PubMed Central)
- Case Study 3 – A 47-year-old man noticed hair loss eight weeks into sertraline treatment. Reducing the dosage led to hair regrowth within six weeks, highlighting that dosage adjustments might mitigate this adverse effect. (Brieflands)
While these cases can provide insight, it should be remembered that side effects are rare. That’s why consulting with a hair loss professional is important for understanding all factors that may be involved with your hair loss.
Which Antidepressants List Hair Loss as a Side Effect?
Interestingly, very few antidepressants list hair loss as a side effect despite reports from patients experiencing the condition.
The most commonly prescribed antidepressants, and their stated link to hair loss, are as follows:
- Sertraline (Zoloft): Since the mid 1990s, people taking Zoloft reported problems with hair loss. However, Pfizer, the maker of Zoloft, does not list hair loss as a side effect.
- Trazodone (Desyrel): Hair loss is rarely seen in patients taking Desyrel, but is not listed as an official side effect.
- Fluoxetine (Prozac): Another SSRI, Prozac does not list hair loss as a side effect, but does state that other side effects are possible.
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Hair loss is not one of the side effects listed, but the possibility of additional side effects is stated.
- Citalopram (Celexa): Although hair loss was observed in a case report from 2019, this side effect wasn’t reported in clinical trials of Celexa.
- Escitalopram (Lexapro): There is no mention of hair loss as a shown or potential side effect.
- Paroxetine (Paxil): Hair loss is not included in the side effects list, although several symptoms that may be related to hair loss are.
- Venlafaxine (Effexor): Despite having one of the most expansive side effect lists of this group, Effexor does not mention hair loss.
- Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq): An SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor), Pristiq lists similar side effects to Effexor and does not include hair loss.
- Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Wellbutrin does list hair loss as a side effect and in 2008, the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology reported a case study of Sertraline induced hair loss.
Managing and Mitigating Hair Loss
If you’re experiencing hair loss while on an antidepressant, consider the following steps.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before making any changes, discuss your symptoms with your doctor. They can assess whether sertraline is the likely cause and suggest alternatives if necessary.
Medication Adjustment: Switching to a different prescription may alleviate hair loss. For instance, some patients have reported hair regrowth after transitioning from sertraline to venlafaxine.
Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter solutions like minoxidil may promote hair regrowth. However, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
Nutritional Support: Ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health, such as biotin, zinc, and iron.
Hair Transplant: If substantial hair loss has occurred, a transplant may be recommended to restore hair growth in targeted areas.
What to Do About Antidepressant-Induced Hair Loss
While hair loss is a potential side effect of taking antidepressants, it remains relatively uncommon.
If you’ve noticed increased shedding of hair, please consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and explore appropriate interventions. Never discontinue or adjust medication without professional guidance.
For more information on hair loss and potential treatments, meet with your doctor or a certified hair loss specialist like Dr. John Frank.
