Does Metformin Cause Hair Loss? Understanding the Truth
Many times, when we find our hair shedding excessively, we often wonder if it is indicative of some health issue.
Or if it is some food or medication we are consuming that’s causing this hair fall.
Metformin is one such medication that diabetic people are recommended, which is often linked to hair fall.
Metformin is the second most common medication prescribed as monotherapy, making up 52% of all Diabetes prescriptions.
But does Metformin cause hair loss, or is it something else?
This article will explore the link between Metformin and hair loss, including potential causes, management strategies, and more.
So, let’s dive in and learn more.
Are Metformin and hair loss related
Metformin is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 Diabetes, and hair loss is not a common side effect of Metformin.
There is little evidence to show that this medication is directly linked to hair loss.
A 2019 report showed a patient with type 2 Diabetes who was taking Metformin and other diabetes drugs experienced a loss of eyebrow and eyelash hair.
It is, however, unclear if this was the impact of the medication or if there might have been other causes.
Another case study from 2015 established a relationship between high blood sugar and Alopecia, but none linked Metformin directly to it.
A study conducted in 2013 suggested that prolonged usage of Metformin can lead to a decrease in the levels of vitamin B12.
So if you have Hyperglycemia and take Metformin without taking enough vitamin B12, chances are that your hair loss is due to Hyperglycemia or deficiency of vitamin B12 and not Metformin.
Side effects of Metformin
The common side effects of Metformin that show up in 1 in every 100 people include the following:
- Feeling nauseous
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach ache
- Loss of appetite
- Metallic taste in the mouth
Hair loss is not among these side effects, showing that Metformin can not be directly linked to hair loss.
Metformin and vitamin B12
Consumption of Metformin has been linked to reducing the levels of vitamin B12 in the body.
Although the body does not need much of it, a deficiency might cause:
- Hair loss
- Weakness and lack of energy
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Hence, consult your doctor if you are on Metformin and have hair fall.
They will do some blood work to assess if you have any nutritional imbalance that might be causing your hair loss.
Your doctor might also suggest you incorporate food items or supplements to ensure proper nutrition intake.
Related causes of hair loss
Many reasons can cause hair loss.
Even if you are on Metformin, hair loss could still be caused by other factors.
These probable causes include:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Metformin is prescribed by doctors for its off-label use to manage PCOS.
PCOS is characterized by high levels of androgens, which are male hormones responsible for developing masculine features in the body.
They are associated with hair growth on the face and might lead to hair thinning or hair loss on the head.
High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar levels can also increase inflammation throughout the body, including in the scalp.
Inflammation can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss.
Stress
Stress can cause various changes in the body, including temporary hair loss.
High-stress levels for a prolonged period can make the body release a hormone called cortisol which interferes with the hair growth cycle.
Preventive tips
Here are some tips and ways that can help you save your hair.
De-stress
Chronic stress can cause hair loss. So find ways to de-stress that work for you.
You can try exercising or meditating. Get enough sleep and make time for your hobbies.
Nutritional deficiencies
Check with your doctor and find out if the hair fall is due to a deficiency of nutrients, especially vitamin B12.
Your doctor might suggest a diet plan or recommend supplements to reduce hair fall.
Hair care practices
Create a gentle hair care routine using moisturizing products.
Avoid tight hairstyles, which may pull your hair and cause breakage.
Also, avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible since they can damage the hair.
Consider medications
You can also consider using medication that targets hair loss and help promote the growth of healthy hair.
Minoxidil and Finasteride are such FDA-approved medications to treat hair fall.
Although these medications are available over the counter, it is recommended that you consult your doctor first before taking them.
Takeaway
There is not enough evidence to conclusively say that Metformin can cause hair loss.
The side effects of this medication do not cause hair loss. They include nausea, vomiting, Diarrhoea, loss of appetite, stomach ache, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
However, conditions that require Metformin as a treatment- like type 2 Diabetes and PCOS can potentially cause hair fall.
If you are on Metformin and experience hair loss, consult your doctor to know the best course of action.
