Connection between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Hair Loss: Essential Facts to Consider
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic disease that can affect the entire body, including the hair. Some medications used to treat RA are known to cause hair loss as a side effect.
Methotrexate, a common RA medication, is one such drug. Sold under brand names like Rheumatrex or Trexall, it is known to cause hair loss in about 1-3% of people who take it[1][2][4]. Leflunomide, another DMARD, can lead to hair loss in about 10% of people who take it[2][4]. These drugs work by stopping the growth of cells that support the hair follicles, leading to hair loss[5].
Biologic drugs, such as Etanercept (Enbrel) and Adalimumab (Humira), are also associated with hair loss, although it is less common[4]. Cimzia (Certolizumab Pegol) is another biologic drug that may cause hair loss in some patients[3].
However, not all RA medications lead to hair loss. Examples of RA medications that do not cause hair loss include tofacitinib, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, among others[1].
If you are experiencing hair loss due to your RA medication, it may be beneficial to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider. Rinvoq, while not typically associated with hair loss, can be used alongside other medications like methotrexate, which may cause hair loss[1]. Olumiant, a medication used to treat alopecia areata, does not cause hair loss and might be considered if your RA treatment options are flexible[2][5].
Choosing a different DMARD or adjusting the dosage may help minimize side effects while managing RA symptoms. If hair loss is a concern, switching to a different biologic medication could be an option if available and suitable for your condition.
In addition to medication adjustments, there are lifestyle changes that may help minimize hair loss. Avoiding scrubbing the scalp when washing the hair, allowing the hair to dry naturally after showering, combing the hair only when necessary, using a moisturizing conditioner to remove tangles, and avoiding hairstyles that pull on the hair may help reduce hair loss[6].
Most people who experience medication-induced hair loss find that their hair grows back once they stop taking the drug responsible[7]. However, in some cases, permanent hair loss may occur, particularly for males with RA and females with RA who experience thinning on the front and top of the scalp[7].
Individuals who are concerned about hair loss should speak with a doctor about the possibility of lowering their current medication dosage or switching to an RA medication that does not list hair loss as a potential side effect. Each of these drugs has other possible side effects, so people should talk with a doctor about the side effects of each drug[6].
Methotrexate depletes the body of the B vitamin folate, which promotes healthy hair[5]. Taking folic acid and biotin supplements may help protect against hair loss for people taking methotrexate or leflunomide[3].
In some cases, sudden or patchy hair loss, excessive hair loss when washing or combing the hair, regularly finding hair on the pillow, or feeling particularly concerned or distressed by hair loss may indicate a serious underlying medical condition that requires urgent attention[8]. Prolonged inflammation from RA can harm multiple systems and organs within the body[8]. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider.
References: [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7082992/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6435907/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6435907/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6133633/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6942166/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6133633/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6942166/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6942166/
- The common rheumatoid arthritis (RA) medication Methotrexate, sold under brand names like Rheumatrex or Trexall, can lead to hair loss as a side effect in about 1-3% of people who take it, and taking folic acid and biotin supplements may help protect against this hair loss.
- Leflunomide, another RA medication, can cause hair loss in about 10% of people who take it, and choosing a different DMARD or adjusting the dosage may help minimize side effects while managing RA symptoms.
- Biologic drugs like Etanercept (Enbrel) and Adalimumab (Humira) are associated with hair loss, although it is less common, and switching to a different biologic medication could be an option if available and suitable for your condition.
- Hair loss due to RA medication can be a concern, but there are RA medications that do not cause hair loss, such as tofacitinib, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, and Olumiant, which might be considered if your RA treatment options are flexible.
- If you are experiencing hair loss due to your RA medication, it may be beneficial to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider, and if you are concerned about hair loss, speak with a doctor about the possibility of lowering your current medication dosage or switching to an RA medication that does not list hair loss as a potential side effect. However, the side effects of each drug should also be considered.
