Posted by Gabbi on August 12, 2002, at 15:05:38
In reply to Hair Loss and Anti Depressants, posted by Lynn G. on August 12, 2002, at 11:32:43
Hi Lynn.
When I started on Prozac about 7 years ago my
hair completely changed texture and chunks at the back of head fell out completely. Is it breaking off, or coming out at the root?
The reason I'm asking is that depression and the stress resulting from it can cause your hair to fall from the root and not grow back. Its called stress "alopecia"
If its breaking off though, its likely the medication. Medication deposits tend to make your hair really fragile especially at the back of your head. Additionally the medications you mentioned deplete the body of vitamin B's which are integral to the strengh of your hair.I can't say whether or not switching to effexor will solve the problem. There are a few things that have helped me significantly though. One is using a satin pillowcase, it doesn't 'grab' your hair. Another is taking flax oil, Extra Vitamin A and E as well as a high quality vitamin B complex. These have to be taken regularly and long term to see the benefits. I also use a special cleansing shampoo once a week, (Redken Creme Cleanse) which removes medication deposits, there are several brands which call themselves deep cleansing shampoos though, just make sure it specifies that it removes medication deposits.
Lifestyle changes which accompany depression can also cause hair loss,such as less excercise or an erratic diet.
However if it is coming out at the root, and not growing back I suspect its alopecia which can definately be helped by the previous suggestions but may also need additional treatment.
Best of Luck to you
I was horrifed when it happened to me, as if the depression isn't bad enough....
My hair is almost back to the way it was pre-depression from the Vitamins and Flax oil though, so there is hope.
Hang in there.
(and tell your hair I said that too.)
poster:Gabbi
thread:28473
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20020804/msgs/28480.html