Hair loss can be a side effect of some medications, including sertraline (Zoloft). Although it is not common, it can be distressing and may lead to poor medication adherence and impacts on mood and self-esteem. Sertraline-related hair loss is reversible and can be managed with alterations to treatment.
- Zoloft (sertraline) can sometimes cause hair loss.
- Many psychotropic drugs can lead to hair loss, although it is not a common occurrence.
- The prescribing physician can help with hair loss by altering medications, testing for and treating other causes, and advising on hair regrowth strategies.
Does Zoloft (sertraline) cause hair loss?
Hair loss can occur with Zoloft (sertraline) treatment, although it is not common. [1] Many psychotropic medications cause hair loss as a side effect, with some being more likely to cause this than others. Hair loss, or alopecia, can affect the scalp, eyebrows, and pubic area. This can also impact the structure and color of the hair. [1][2]
There are limited reports of sertraline causing hair loss. If hair loss occurs, it is typically apparent within the first three months of treatment and is reversible. [1]
Mechanism behind antidepressant-induced hair loss
The exact mechanism behind antidepressant-induced hair loss is not fully understood. It is thought that psychotropic medications impact the telogen phase of hair production. [1][3]
Hair production occurs in the anagen (growth) phase, which can last for several months or years. In the telogen (resting) phase, the hair sheds before new hair is produced in the follicle. Antidepressant hair loss is believed to be caused by an interruption in the anagen phase, causing the telogen phase to commence early. This results in increased shedding and reduced hair production.
How common is hair loss with sertraline?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of sertraline and occurs very infrequently. There are only a few case reports of sertraline-related hair loss. [1][3]
In a review of over 400,000 individuals taking psychotropic medications, only 18 of over 200,000 people taking antidepressants experienced hair loss. [2]
Signs Zoloft may be affecting your hair
Generally, people normally lose up to 150 hairs daily, so it can be difficult to recognize clinically significant hair loss. Typically, up to 25-50% of head hair is lost before it is apparent. [2]
A gentle hair pull test can help identify significant hair loss. This involves taking a lock of hair, around 50-60 strands, between the first three fingers, and gently pulling. Hairs that have come away from the scalp are then counted. If more than 10% (6 hairs) of the lock is removed, this indicates clinically significant hair loss. If fewer than 6 hairs are pulled out, this is likely normal hair loss. [1]
Hair loss can occur due to various causes. As such, hair loss during sertraline treatment may not always be related to the medication. It can be helpful to discontinue the medication (under professional advice) to ascertain whether it is the cause.
Zoloft hair loss vs. other possible causes
Other possible causes of hair loss can include: [2][3]
- Infection
- Trauma
- Stress
- Hormone dysfunction
- Autoimmune disease
- Malnutrition
- Vitamin or iron deficiency
- Toxins
People requiring sertraline treatment may be at increased risk of hair loss due to these causes, as they might be common occurrences alongside depression symptoms. As such, it can be important to discover the root cause of hair loss, as other treatments may be needed to manage hair loss rather than discontinuing medication. [1]
Is hair loss from Zoloft permanent?
Hair loss during Zoloft treatment is usually improved or reversed once the medication is stopped. Higher doses may be more likely to cause hair loss, so a reduced dose might prevent or reverse this. [1][4]
Conversely, if the medication is stopped or reduced and hair loss continues, it is likely that sertraline is not the cause of the hair loss, and other tests and interventions may be required.
Natural ways to support hair regrowth
Natural ways to support hair regrowth can include: [5]
- Dietary changes to include more vitamins, iron, zinc, protein, and omega-3
- Adequate hydration
- Scalp massage to increase blood flow to the hair follicles
- Essential oils, tea tree oil, coconut oil, or aloe vera applied to the scalp
- Healthy habits such as exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management
- Avoiding heated hair styling such as curling irons or blow dryers
What to do if you're losing your hair on Zoloft
People who are experiencing hair loss during Zoloft treatment can report this side effect to their prescribing physician, who can provide advice and treatment adjustments if required. If hair loss is minimal or is of no concern, and Zoloft is providing effective symptom management, it may not be necessary to alter treatment.
However, if the individual is concerned about hair loss, it may be appropriate and necessary to change the type or dosage of the medication. Medication changes should not be made without the guidance of a physician.
Discontinuing Zoloft is likely to stop and reverse hair loss. If this is appropriate, it may be necessary to gradually reduce the Zoloft dose before commencing a different antidepressant medication. Discontinuing Zoloft without professional advice can lead to unmanaged symptoms and withdrawal.
When to see a doctor
It is important to attend regular medication reviews while taking Zoloft, during which time individuals can report unpleasant or concerning side effects. The doctor can help manage side effects and make any necessary treatment adjustments. Aside from these reviews, people may wish to consult a doctor if their hair loss is worsening and they feel reluctant to continue their medication.
A doctor can also conduct tests to discover if the hair loss is related to other issues, such as thyroid or hormonal conditions.
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