Drug-Induced Alopecia: Review of the Literature

The document reviewed the literature on drug-induced alopecia, highlighting that various drugs could cause hair loss, ranging from mild shedding to irreversible baldness. It was noted that drug-induced alopecia was typically diffuse, non-scarring, and reversible upon stopping the drug. Antimitotic agents were commonly associated with hair loss, while psychotropic drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants and lithium, were also implicated, with 15% of lithium users experiencing hair thinning. Anticonvulsants like valproic acid, beta-adrenoceptor antagonists, anticoagulants, antithyroid drugs, and oral contraceptives were identified as potential causes. Other drugs occasionally linked to hair loss included cimetidine, retinoids, and amphetamines. Diagnosing drug-induced alopecia was challenging, with confirmation relying on hair regrowth after discontinuing the drug. Recognizing this side effect was crucial due to its impact on patient compliance.