Could Zoloft be the cause of my hair loss?

Question

Was prescribed 25mg of Zoloft at the beginning of July. 3 weeks into taking my prescription, I noticed increased hair shedding. Is it possible that the Zoloft could be the reason for this? I have read that some anti-depressants are known to cause hair loss.

Jae Pak, MD · Answer

Anything is possible but Zoloft may or may not be the reason.  Just because hair loss may be a side effect does not mean it is the cause of it.  Follow up with your doctor.  The most common cause of hair loss in men is genetic male pattern balding.  A doctor usually needs to examine a patient, diagnose a problem (of why you are losing your hair or how much more hair loss you may have in the future).  It is always a good idea to follow up with your doctor if you believe you are having side effects associated with Zoloft.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Zoloft and similar selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class drugs can cause hair shedding but it's not common. Hair shedding typically occurs 6-12 weeks after starting but certainly earlier shedding patterns can be seen.  Nevertheless, one can't tell based on the information given if Zoloft is a cause or not. For women, the only way to determine the cause of hair loss is to see a physician for:a careful history of the hair lossexamination of the scalp, and other hairblood testsThese three components are essential for diagnosing hair loss in women. None can be left out.  One would need to know other medications you take, when they were started, whether you have itching, burning, pain, what stresses you have had in the past 3-4 months, weight loss, illnesses, the regularity of your periods, your family history, changes to your eyebrows, eyelashes, body hair and nails.  Then the scalp would need to be carefully examined for hair cycle changes, miniaturization, inflammation, scaling, regrowth. Blood tests would be needed for a number of things as well. As you can see all this needs to be put together in order to come up with the answer to the question - did this medication cause shedding?

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes, Zoloft can cause hair loss as it has been reported as a rare side effect. If there appears to be a one on one relationship to starting the medication and the hair loss, you should speak with your doctor about it. There are also other causes of hair loss which you and your doctor should discuss.

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