Beta blockers (also called beta-adrenergic blocking agents) are medications that lower blood pressure and can block the effects of adrenaline. They help widen veins and arteries to improve blood flow. They are generally prescribed to treat various cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, angina, and arrhythmias. These medications are great at what they do… but they can also cause fatigue, weight gain, poor circulation, and in some cases even hair loss.
What Beta Blockers Cause Hair Loss?
Not all beta blockers have hair loss among their possible side effects and, in those that do, it occurs rarely. Beta blockers that have been connected to hair loss include propranolol (the key ingredient in Inderal) and metoprolol. These medications work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the body’s beta receptors. The hair loss this can rarely cause is believed to be caused by how they also block the production of certain hormones and enzymes that are necessary for healthy hair follicles.
In addition to hair loss, beta blockers and blood pressure medications can also sometimes affect one’s hair texture as well. Though fortunately the changes typically revert to their original state once a person stops taking the medication.
What Blood Pressure Medications Can Cause Hair Loss?
Aside from beta blockers, there are other blood pressure medications that have also been associated with hair loss. Alopecia due to beta-blockers is generally a form of telogen effluvium – which is a reversible thinning of hair.
Generally, 10-15% of a person’s hair follicles are in the telogen (resting) phase of the hair growth cycle. Telogen effluvium causes a larger percentage to enter the resting phase and that leads to noticeable shedding. It is temporary but is brought on by things like physical stress or changes in the body, such as the introduction to new medications like beta blockers.
ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors occasionally lead to hair loss. Generally used to increase urine flow, diuretics have also been linked to hair loss in some cases. While not a common side effect, calcium channel blockers also have some reports of hair loss.
How Do You Reverse Hair Loss from Blood Pressure Medication?
If you are worried your medication may be causing hair loss, it is important you discuss it with your healthcare provider before attempting to make any changes to your treatment plan. Sometimes it’s a simple matter of switching medications, adding supplements or adjusting your diet, or there are also topical treatments like minoxidil (the key ingredient in Rogaine).
Of course, making sure you find ways to decrease stress, get enough sleep, and eat and exercise regularly are all important to your overall hair health.
Different people have different responses to medication and potential hair loss can vary significantly between people. So, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice that speaks to your specific situation.
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