Medicine Side Effects Loss Treatment In Indore

About Medication-induced Hair Loss

Drug-induced alopecia results from interference in the cycling of hair growth by some drugs, leading either to shedding or thinning.

It can appear weeks to months after commencing a drug and is usually reversible upon cessation or substitution of medication.

⚕️ How It Happens

Hair grows in 3 cardinal phases:

Anagen (growth phase) – 85–90% of hair

Catagen, or transition phase – 1–2%

Telogen (resting/shedding phase) – 10–15%

Some medications cause an early induction of hairs into the telogen phase-onset of telogen effluvium-whereas others damage follicles during anagen growth, such as anagen effluvium from chemotherapy.

Common Medications That Cause Hair Loss

Medication Type Examples: persuasion

Chemotherapeutic agents: Doxorubicin, Cyclophosphamide, Anagen effluvium (rapid loss)

Anticoagulants (blood thinners): Hepparin, Warfarin. Telogen effluvium

Beta-blockers (heart meds): Propranolol, Atenolol, Hair thinning

Antidepressants sertraline, fluoxetine, diffuse hair shedding

Anticonvulsants: Valproic acid, Carbamazepine. Hair loss + texture change

Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), Isotretinoin, Follicle miniaturization

Hormonal therapies: Birth control pills, hormone blockers, hormone-related thinning

Antithyroid drugs Methimazole, Carbimazole, disrupt the balance between thyroid and hair

Cholesterol-lowering medications, Statins, decreased scalp blood flow

Immunosuppressants Methotrexate, Azathioprine, damage follicle growth

What to Do (Treatment & Prevention)

1. Consult Your Doctor Before Stopping the Medicine

Never stop or adjust prescribed medication on your own-your doctor can:

Dose adjustment

Switch to a hair-friendly alternative.

Add supplements or treatments that may reduce hair loss.

2. Promoting Hair Growth

Topical Treatments

Minoxidil (Rogaine 2–5%)

→ Stimulates new hair growth and prolongs the growth phase

→ Apply twice daily to the affected area

???? Nutritional Supplements

Contraindications: Only take under medical advice:

Biotin or Vitamin B7: Hair shaft strengthening

Iron & Zinc: Prevent the Deficiency-Induced Shedding

Vitamin D - helps with follicle health

Omega-3 & B-complex reduce inflammation and stress impact.

???? Medical Procedures (if severe)

PRP therapy: Platelet-Rich Plasma–Strengthening the weak follicles

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) - stimulates hair regrowth

Hair transplantation for permanent follicle damage

3. Diet for Recovery

Eat foods rich in:

Protein: eggs, fish, beans, chicken

Iron: spinach, red meat, lentils

Zinc & Selenium: pumpkin seeds, nuts

Omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts

Antioxidants: berries, green tea, citrus fruits

4. Scalp & Hair Care

A mild sulfate-free shampoo will help minimize the irritation.

Massage your scalp for 5–10 minutes daily to improve circulation.

Apply light oils (coconut, rosemary, argan) 2–3 times/week.

Protect hair from the sun, pollution, and heat styling.

X What Not to Do

❌ Don’t stop your medication abruptly; it can be dangerous.

Avoid using harsh chemical dyes, relaxers, or bleach. ❌ Don't over-wash or over-comb hair. Avoid tight hairstyles, such as ponytails and buns, that pull the follicles. ❌ Don’t take random “hair growth pills” online, because most of them are unsafe. Avoid stress, smoking, and sleep deprivation, as these will slow down regrowth.