From the Guidelines
Yes, Depakote (valproate) is more likely to cause hair loss than Haldol (haloperidol). According to the study published in the American Family Physician in 2003 1, hair loss is listed as one of the adverse effects of valproate, along with tremor, weight gain, and teratogenic effects. While the study does not provide a direct comparison with Haldol (haloperidol), it highlights the potential for hair loss as a side effect of Depakote. Some key points to consider about hair loss associated with Depakote include:
- Hair loss typically begins within the first few months of treatment
- It presents as diffuse thinning rather than complete baldness
- The hair loss is usually reversible once the medication is discontinued or the dose is reduced
- Valproate can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, pushing more hair follicles into the telogen (resting) phase, leading to increased shedding
- Patients concerned about this side effect should consult their healthcare provider before making any changes to their medication regimen, as sudden discontinuation of Depakote can lead to serious consequences. It's also worth noting that some patients may benefit from supplementation with zinc and selenium, which support healthy hair growth, though this should be discussed with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
From the FDA Drug Label
Dermatologic: Transient hair loss, skin rash, photosensitivity, generalized pruritus, erythema multiforme, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The common side effects of Valproic Acid Oral Solution, USP include: •hair loss
Hair Loss Comparison
- Depakote (valproate) lists hair loss as a possible side effect, with one label indicating it is a common side effect and another specifying it as transient.
- There is no provided drug label for Haldol (haloperidol) to directly compare the incidence of hair loss. Based on the available information, Depakote (valproate) is known to cause hair loss, but without the Haldol label, a direct comparison cannot be made to determine if Depakote is more likely to cause hair loss than Haldol 2 2.
From the Research
Comparison of Hair Loss between Depakote and Haldol
- Depakote (valproate) is known to cause hair loss as a common adverse drug reaction, with studies indicating that it can lead to diffused, nonscarring, and dose-related hair loss 3.
- The incidence of hair loss with valproate has been reported to be up to 12% of persons on valproate 4.
- In contrast, there is limited information available on Haldol (haloperidol) causing hair loss, with no specific studies or data indicating a significant association between Haldol and hair loss.
- However, it is mentioned that some psychotropic drugs, including antipsychotics like Haldol, may induce hair loss, but this is not as well-documented as with valproate 5.
Hair Loss Associated with Valproate
- Valproate-induced hair loss is a recognized side effect, with other hair-related adverse events including curling of hair, graying, dirty appearance, and changes in texture 3.
- The study also notes that experiments with topical valproic acid have shown some initial evidence of hair regeneration, making valproate's effects on hair interesting and worthy of further understanding 3.
- Another study found that alopecia was the second most common patient-reported cosmetic side effect associated with valproic acid, with 8.9% of patients taking valproic acid reporting hair loss 6.