From the Research
Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, is not typically associated with hair loss as a common side effect. While hair loss is not listed among the frequent adverse effects of verapamil in most drug references, medication-induced hair loss can occur with various medications and individual responses may vary. If you're taking verapamil and experiencing hair loss, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. The mechanism by which some medications cause hair loss involves disruption of the normal hair growth cycle, pushing more hair follicles into the resting or shedding phase. However, calcium channel blockers like verapamil generally work by blocking calcium entry into cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, which doesn't typically interfere with hair follicle function.
According to the most recent study on hair loss, 1, more than 80 million people in the United States are affected by hair loss, also known as alopecia, and the causes can be diverse, including genetic, systemic diseases, nutritional factors, or stress. The study suggests that a comprehensive history and physical examination, with targeted laboratory testing, may elucidate the underlying cause of hair loss.
Other medications, health conditions, nutritional factors, or stress could be contributing to hair loss symptoms. Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause and suggest appropriate management strategies, such as minoxidil for androgenetic alopecia, as recommended by the study on the safe and effective use of topical and oral minoxidil, 2.
It's crucial to note that verapamil's pharmacological properties and therapeutic use have been extensively studied, 3, 4, and its efficacy in managing hypertension, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders is well-established. However, these studies do not provide evidence of a link between verapamil and hair loss.
In summary, if you're taking verapamil and experiencing hair loss, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate management plan, as hair loss is not a typical side effect of verapamil.