Lexapro Hair Loss: A Complete Guide
Lexapro (Escitalopram) is an antidepressant.
It comes from the class of medicines, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
Lexapro is used to treat certain types of anxiety and depression.
The medicine works by balancing the Serotonin levels in your brain and nerves.
This change in Serotonin levels can sometimes lead to hair loss.
Although hair loss from Lexapro is rare, hair loss, in general, is very common.
By the age of 50, around 50% of males and more than 25% of women start experiencing hair loss.
Keep reading to know more about Lexapro hair loss and treatments you can take for it.
Lexapro and hair loss
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors are used to treat a wide range of disorders.
They are used to treat eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, and borderline personality disorders.
Hair loss from Lexapro is not a commonly reported side effect.
Although the exact mechanism is unknown, some people may experience hair loss while taking the medication.
One theory is that hair loss may result from changes in Serotonin levels caused by Lexapro.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in many bodily functions, including hair growth and mood regulation.
Changes in Serotonin levels may potentially disrupt the normal growth cycle of hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Another theory is that Lexapro can cause hormonal imbalances that can contribute to hair loss.
However, it is important to note that Lexapro hair loss is very rare and may not affect everyone who takes it.
If you are experiencing a hair fall while taking the medication, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment options.
However, sudden withdrawal from antidepressants can cause symptoms like anxiety or insomnia.
Consult your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Don’t stop taking medicine on your own.
Treatments for hair loss
If you are suffering from a hair fall while taking Lexapro, it is essential that you speak with your doctor to determine the cause.
Depending on the severity of your hair problem, your doctor may recommend the following treatment options.
Topical medications
One or a combination of medications is recommended to treat hair loss for optimal results.
A popularly known medicine, Minoxidil, can help people with different types of hair problems, including hair loss from certain medications.
It works by increasing the blood supply to your scalp and stimulating follicle movement to the active phase.
Finasteride is a prescription-based medication for men with male pattern hair loss or Androgenic Alopecia.
It slows the hair loss rate and enhances new hair growth by inhibiting the body’s hormone production that destroys hair follicles.
These are topical medications available in foam or solution, applied directly to the scalp.
Nutritional supplements
Nutritional supplements, such as biotin and iron, can help support healthy hair growth.
Biotin is a vitamin B important for hair health. It helps strengthen hair and prevent further hair loss.
Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss; thus, iron supplements can help reduce the likelihood of hair loss.
Moreover, Zinc and Omega-3 fatty acids are important for overall health as they help repair hair tissues.
Although these supplements are helpful for some people, they may not work for everyone.
Talk with a dermatologist before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you take any medications.
Hair transplant surgery
Hair transplant surgery requires removing hair follicles from one part of the body and transplanting them to the thinning areas of the head.
There are two types of hair transplant surgery, Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) and Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE).
Although both produce excellent results, they each have their own advantages and downsides.
FUT can transplant a larger number of grafts in a single session, while FUE is less invasive and does not leave any scar.
However, results can vary depending on a number of factors, including age, hair type, and the extent of hair loss.
Takeaway
Lexapro, also known as Escitalopram, is a prescription-based medicine for several mental health conditions.
While it is generally considered safe and effective, some users have reported experiencing hair loss as a side effect of taking the medicine.
If you are experiencing hair loss, consulting your doctor about it should be the first step.
Do not stop taking medicine on your own.
You can also take a few steps at home to help reduce hair loss.
Maintaining a healthy diet and daily exercise can help promote hair growth.
Additionally, some other treatment options, like medications and surgery, are available with effective results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lexapro cause hair loss or thinning?
Yes. Lexapro is an antidepressant from a group of drugs called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Although not fully understood, it is believed that Lexapro causes changes in Serotonin levels. Since serotonin is involved in hair growth, changes in its levels can lead to hair loss.
What antidepressants make your hair fall out?
Fluoxetine is one of the most common antidepressants that can cause hair loss. Additionally, Fluvoxamine, Paroxetine, and Sertraline are some of the antidepressants responsible for hair loss in a few cases.
Is hair loss from SSRI permanent?
No. Hair loss from SSRIs is not permanent. People usually recover completely after they stop taking the medication. If hair loss persists even after you discontinue the medication, you may have some underlying condition causing the hair problems. Speak with your doctor to determine the right cause.
Which SSRI has the least hair loss?
A 2018 population-based study suggests Fluoxetine causes less hair loss than other SSRIs. Paroxetine is also another antidepressant with lower risks of hair loss as compared to others.
What are the side effects of Lexapro?
Some dermatological side effects of Lexapro include redness and rash. It can also cause hair loss and changes in hair structure and color. Hair loss may be limited in some cases; however, in others, Lexapro can cause hair loss over the entire body.
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