Does PRP work for hair loss and thinning due to meds? (photos)

Question

I am on levothyroxine 100, which I believe is what is causing my hair shedding, thinning and some male pattern baldness at front hair line. Iron levels are normal. Started biotin and that did help slightly. I found out I"m low in vitamin D so will start taking that but would I be a good candidate for PRP?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, This needs an in-person evaluation. I suggest seeing a hair loss expert now to evaluate and go over your condition and provide you information about your best treatment options. There are great non-invasive options like prp/progesterone and/or hair transplantation. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

PRP is a helpful adjunct therapy. However, in the case of medically induced hair loss, treating the underlying condition is of paramount importance. If the cause cannot be addressed, reversing loss can be challenging. As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS) with experience in hair restoration.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Levothyroxine can cause a loss of density and thinning of individual hair shafts. It does not follow the same pattern as androgenic alopecia but can unmask a existing androgenic tendency. PRP can decrease hair shedding, increase the size of hair shafts and increase hair density. I recommend the subdermal depo injection technique. Find a PRP expert. Ask to see photos.

Amit Rajguru, MD · Answer

Proper balance of your thyroid hormones are important to maintain a healthy head of hair. You're on the right track by trying to maintain optimal iron stores (Ferritin levels), and vitamin D levels. Both hypo and hyperthyroidism can result in hair loss.  Please follow-up with your doctor to maintain optimal thyroid health.
A balanced thyroid hormone that contains both T3 and T4 maybe a better option for you. Your levothyroxine is T4 only. 
The PRP will be very helpful in halting the hair loss and potentially regrowing new hair in the areas that are affected.

Joyce Davis, MD · Answer

You certainly need to stabilize your medical situation for hair growth to be optimal.  Both low levels of vitamin D and thyroid problems are well known causes of hair loss.  Your dermatologist should work with your endocrinologist .  PRP can be helpful too.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

PRP works extremely well in patients such as yourself who may also have thyroid or other hormonal problems.   It will thicken up existing hair and help new hair to grow as well.  Of course it is necessary to treat the vitamin deficiency as well to optimize re-growth.  Please consult an expert in hair loss for the best cosmetic results.  Best, Dr. Green

Ryan Welter, MD · Answer

Cell based therapies such and Platelet Rich Plasma are becoming a mainstay for treating hair loss due to a host of conditions.  There are several formulations available and not all of them have the same results.  I would search carefully for a physician with a high level of experience using cell based therapies as there can be wide variations in results.

Arbella Sarkis, MD · Answer

Assuming an exam is performed and you are found not afflicted by something else, PRP will likely benefit you.  
I suggest you may want to simply switch to Nature Thyroid. It is bio-identical to what your body is expecting and won't cause the side effects. Levothyroxine is simply another big pharma medication that is patented because they can't patent and make big money with a bio-identical medication. 
Big pharma modifies the hormone to be largely effective, the FDA passes it and years later the patient may have bigger problems than the initial hair shedding experience. Find a Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) physician that practices Integrative or Functional Medicine. We'll keep you away from the big pharma medications whenever possible. Not all big pharma are bad, but many are. 
I hope I have helped. Wishing you success with finding a good solution.
Warmly,
Arbella Sarkis, MD

James Vogel, MD (retired) · Answer

PRP is an excellent non-surgical option for hair loss.  If there is an underlying medical cause that must be addressed as well for treatment to be the most successful.  PRP will not grow hair where there is no hair, however it can help thicken and strengthen remaining hair.  You should discuss these concerns with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who is experienced in hair restoration treatments.

Does PRP work for hair loss and thinning due to meds? (photos)

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