Which antidepressants would cause hair loss? (ChatGPT, 2024-11-7)
Some antidepressants have been associated with hair loss in certain individuals, though this side effect is generally rare. Hair loss due to medication is often a form of telogen effluvium, where stress on the body, including from medications, causes hair follicles to enter a resting phase and shed. Here are some antidepressants that may contribute to hair loss:
1. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors):
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Hair loss is rare but has been reported with these medications. However, the exact frequency varies and may depend on individual susceptibility.
2. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors):
• Venlafaxine (Effexor) and Duloxetine (Cymbalta) have occasionally been linked to hair loss.
3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs):
• Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, and Clomipramine are older antidepressants sometimes associated with hair loss as a side effect.
4. Bupropion (Wellbutrin):
• Bupropion has a higher likelihood of causing hair loss compared to SSRIs and is reported by some individuals to contribute to noticeable shedding.
In most cases, hair loss due to antidepressants is reversible once the medication is discontinued or switched to an alternative. If hair loss becomes significant, a healthcare provider may recommend a different antidepressant with a lower likelihood of this side effect.
