From the Guidelines
Lamotrigine is considered a weight-neutral medication and there is no clear evidence to suggest that it causes significant hair loss. When considering the potential side effects of lamotrigine, it's essential to weigh the benefits of the medication against the risks, particularly in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. In the context of lamotrigine, the study by 1 focuses on the practical use of pharmacotherapy for obesity, categorizing various medications by their impact on weight. According to this study, lamotrigine is considered weight-neutral, which implies that it does not have a significant effect on weight gain or loss. While the provided study does not directly address hair loss associated with lamotrigine, the medication's weight-neutral status suggests that it may not have a substantial impact on hair health. However, it's crucial to consider that hair loss can be a side effect of various medications, and the relationship between lamotrigine and hair loss may be complex. Some key points to consider when evaluating the potential for hair loss with lamotrigine include:
- The medication's mechanism of action and potential effects on hair follicles or overall health
- The presence of other medications or health conditions that could contribute to hair loss
- The importance of maintaining good hair care practices and avoiding harsh chemical treatments
- The potential for nutritional supplements, such as biotin, zinc, or folate, to help manage hair loss It's essential to discuss any concerns about hair loss with a healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized guidance and help determine the best course of action. Ultimately, the decision to continue or adjust lamotrigine treatment should be based on a thorough evaluation of the medication's benefits and risks, with a focus on minimizing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life.
From the Research
Lamotrigine and Hair Loss
- Lamotrigine has been associated with hair loss, as reported in a study published in 2010 2.
- The study analyzed individual case safety reports in a global database and found that lamotrigine was suspected of causing alopecia in 337 patients.
- The patients' ages ranged from 5 months to 84 years, with a mean age of 36 years, and 58% of the patients were under 40 years old.
- In 11 patients, the hair loss abated after cessation of lamotrigine, and one patient experienced a recurrence of hair loss after re-administration of the drug.
Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss
- A review published in 2019 3 discussed the role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss, including vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, iron, selenium, and zinc.
- The review suggested that micronutrients play an important role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function, and that deficiency in these micronutrients may be a modifiable risk factor for hair loss.
- However, the review also noted that large double-blind placebo-controlled trials are needed to determine the effect of specific micronutrient supplementation on hair growth.
Biotin and Hair Loss
- Two studies, published in 2024 4 and 2017 5, reviewed the literature on the use of biotin for hair loss.
- The studies found that there is limited evidence to support the use of biotin as a hair supplement, and that high-quality studies are needed to determine its efficacy.
- The 2017 study found that biotin supplementation may be beneficial in cases of acquired and inherited causes of biotin deficiency, as well as in pathologies such as brittle nail syndrome or uncombable hair, but that there is a lack of sufficient evidence for supplementation in healthy individuals.