TLDR New drugs like N-acetylcysteine and dronabinol show promise for treating hair-pulling disorder.
Trichotillomania (TTM) is a hair-pulling disorder affecting 0.5% to 2.0% of the population, leading to significant psychological issues. While behavioral therapy has been effective, not all patients can adhere to it, highlighting the need for pharmacological treatments. Traditional medications like fluoxetine, clomipramine, olanzapine, and naltrexone have shown mixed results and often have limiting side effects. Recent advances in understanding TTM's pathophysiology have introduced new potential treatments, particularly glutamate-modulating agents such as N-acetylcysteine and dronabinol, which have shown promise in managing the disorder.
18 citations
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November 2016 in “International clinical psychopharmacology” Inositol was not more effective than a placebo in treating trichotillomania.
219 citations
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September 2016 in “American Journal of Psychiatry” Trichotillomania is different from OCD and is best treated with habit reversal therapy and specific medications.
21 citations
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April 2015 in “Psychology Research and Behavior Management” Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the best treatment for hair-pulling disorder, and combining it with other therapies could improve results.
69 citations
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October 2013 in “Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology” Naltrexone did not significantly reduce hair pulling but improved cognitive flexibility.
30 citations
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August 2018 in “Dermatology and Therapy” Better-designed, long-term studies are needed to optimize treatment for trichotillomania and trichophagia.
7 citations
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May 2013 in “Optometry and vision science” Bimatoprost can help regrow eyelashes in people with trichotillomania.
22 citations
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May 2011 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Recognizing and managing skin-related psychiatric disorders in children is crucial for effective treatment.
May 2024 in “Actas dermo-sifiliográficas/Actas dermo-sifiliográficas” Effective treatments for trichotillomania include cognitive-behavioral therapy, certain medications, and alternative support tools.
8 citations
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September 2021 in “Skin appendage disorders” Trichotillomania treatment is most successful with a mix of behavioral therapy, medication, and social support.
23 citations
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April 2017 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Dermatologists should screen for and manage psychological issues in patients with skin conditions to improve their quality of life.
