Drug reactions affecting hair: diagnosis

Dermatol Clin. 2007 Apr;25(2):223-31, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.det.2007.01.005.

Abstract

Drugs may cause hair loss, stimulate hair growth, or induce changes in the hair shape and color. Drug-induced hair loss is, in most cases, a consequence of a toxic effect of the drug on the hair matrix. Although a large number of drugs have been occasionally reported to produce hair loss, the relationship between drug intake and hair loss has been proven only for a few agents. Type of hair loss (telogen effluvium, anagen effluvium, or both) depends on the drug, its dosage, and patient's susceptibility. Drug-induced hair loss is usually reversible.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Hair Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Hair Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Hair Diseases / therapy
  • Humans
  • Psychotropic Drugs / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Psychotropic Drugs