Valproate Induced Hair Loss and Curly Hair in Bipolar Disorder

    November 2019 in “ Clinical psychopharmacology and neuroscience/Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience ”
    Ömer Faruk Uygur, Hilal Uygur
    TLDR Valproate can cause both hair loss and curly hair in bipolar disorder patients.
    The document reported a unique case of a 50-year-old bipolar disorder patient experiencing both hair loss and curly hair due to valproate treatment, a side effect not previously documented together in the literature. Valproate, a common mood stabilizer, is known for side effects like tremor, weight gain, and gastrointestinal issues, as well as cosmetic effects such as hair loss and changes in hair texture. The patient, who had been on various valproate regimens over 26 years, noticed hair loss and subsequent curling of hair after nine months of valproate use. The exact mechanism behind these hair changes remains unclear, though hypotheses include dose-dependent biotinidase activity reduction and metal enzyme inhibition. This case highlights the need for psychiatrists to inform patients about potential cosmetic side effects of valproate.
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