Pharmacist Highlights Lack of Information on Medication Side Effects
On December 5, 2025, a pharmacist and hair loss expert disclosed that 29% of patients on medication are not informed about potential side effects of their prescriptions.
Survey on Patient Awareness
A recent survey indicates that only 41% of patients are fully informed about the side effects of their medications, with nearly a third unaware of them entirely. This lack of awareness can lead to health issues, including hair loss linked to common medications.
Expert Insights on Hair Loss
Jason Murphy, a hair loss expert at Chemist4U, explained that many medications cause hair loss by disrupting the natural hair growth cycle. He detailed that hair grows in phases—growth, rest, and shedding—and some medications can induce more hairs to enter the shedding phase simultaneously, leading to a condition known as ‘telogen effluvium’. This typically manifests a few months after starting treatment.
Murphy added that certain drugs might affect hormone balance, nutrient absorption, or blood flow to the scalp, impacting hair growth. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is usually temporary, with hair regrowth occurring once the body adjusts or the medication is stopped.
Guidance for Patients
To address this issue, Murphy identified medications commonly associated with hair loss and provided advice on managing or preventing it. He emphasized consulting with a GP or pharmacist about potential side effects before starting any medication, as alternatives might be available.
Murphy advised: “If you suspect your medication is causing hair loss, consult your GP or pharmacist before making changes. They can determine if your medication is a factor and suggest alternatives. Switching medications often helps, though it might take time. Improvement is usually seen within three to six months after stopping the medication.”
Medications Linked to Hair Loss
Acne Treatments
Acne treatments, especially those with high Vitamin A derivatives, can disrupt the hair growth cycle or affect hormones, leading to hair loss. Oral retinoids like Isotretinoin and topical creams with Retinol, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Salicylic Acid can cause temporary shedding or scalp irritation.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers may lead to hair loss by prematurely pushing hair follicles into the resting phase. This typically results in temporary shedding, which is reversible upon stopping or adjusting the medication.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors can occasionally cause hair loss by affecting blood flow and disrupting the hair growth cycle, leading to telogen effluvium.
Antidepressants
Certain antidepressants may cause hair thinning by interfering with the hair’s natural growth cycle and affecting hormone levels that support follicle health.
Contraceptive Pills
Contraceptive pills can cause hair loss by altering hormone levels, particularly through synthetic progestins that act like androgens, accelerating the hair growth cycle and causing early shedding.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can lead to hair thinning due to the types of hormones used, such as synthetic progestins or testosterone, which may promote androgenic effects.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs are known to cause hair loss by targeting fast-growing cells, including hair follicles. Hair usually regrows after treatment ends or dosage is adjusted.
Managing Hair Loss
Maintaining gentle hair care practices, such as avoiding excessive heat, tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments, can aid recovery. Using mild, sulfate-free shampoos and keeping the scalp clean and hydrated supports new growth.
Jason Murphy advises ensuring a balanced diet rich in iron, protein, zinc, and Vitamin D to nourish hair. Supplements may help if deficiencies are detected, but unnecessary high doses can worsen the situation.
He also highlights the importance of lifestyle factors like good sleep, hydration, and stress management for faster recovery, emphasizing that hair regrowth typically occurs once the underlying cause or medication side effect subsides.
Health Conditions Affecting Hair
Thyroid disorders, low iron or vitamin D levels, autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, and hormonal changes linked to PCOS or menopause can cause hair loss. Addressing the underlying condition often aids hair recovery, so consulting a GP or pharmacist is recommended if persistent hair loss occurs.
