Hair Loss as a Side Effect of Lamotrigine Treatment
July 2006
in “
American Journal of Psychiatry
”
Studysummary This case report describes a probable connection between lamotrigine treatment and hair loss, resolving upon discontinuation, suggesting alopecia as a rare side effect of the drug. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
A 63-year-old woman with bipolar disorder experienced increased hair loss 2-3 weeks after starting lamotrigine treatment, which was confirmed by a trichogram showing increased telogen and dystrophic hair. The hair loss, primarily around the temporal bone, ceased after discontinuing lamotrigine, suggesting a causal link. This case was notable as it was the first to report a direct connection between lamotrigine and alopecia, highlighting the need for awareness of this rare side effect among patients and clinicians.
