Mr XXXXXXX

Thank you for your query here on XXXXXXX

Would you like to mention the names of the anti-depressants that you are taking at the moment? A few anti-depressants such as Mirtazapine are indeed known to be associated with hear loss. But there might be other factors involved which we need to discuss.

Being over weight, per se, does not appear to be responsible for hair loss. But if you are over weight and are not receiving appropriate vitamins and minerals through food, hair loss can happen.

Can you also mention if you are taking any diet advice about the weight?

Awaiting your response.

Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD

---

Hi XXXXXXX

Thanks for the reply.

Few of the medications you are on are known to cause hair loss as a side effect, the medicines being
1. Lithium
2.Altroxin

The above two medicines have been documented in making the hair thin and brittle, leading to hair loss,but this does not mean you could stop them immediately, they must be taken as long as your medical condition warrants their need and until the doctor asks you to modify the dose or stop the same.

The medicines you mentioned are also known to cause weight gain as their side effect.Always remember every medicine has its own side effect, and we always weigh the benefits over risks or side effects while prescribing them.

I would also want to tell you that stress, depression , thyroid dysfunction by themselves cause some amount of hair loss.

Here are a few points and suggestions that would help you in controlling the hair loss.

1.Make sure that you do not have dandruff, itchy scalp and flakes indicate dandruff, in most people this is the cause for hair loss. You could use a good anti dandruff shampoo like NIZROL or SCALPE which have Ketoconazole,twice a week to keep your hair healthy and free from this problem.Cut down on oily food and cholesterol.

2.You must reduce the stress your going through, daily physical activity is compulsory, meditation, yoga , brisk walking, XXXXXXX breathing exercises ,will help you in dealing with stress, depression , hypertension as well as thyroid problems

3. Drink lots of water daily, by doing this you will be hydrating the whole body and keeping your system healthy, contributing to good hair growth.

4. A good multivitamin preparation like Tab.DIACOBOL PLUS/BIOTIN/ZINCOVIT one tab a day will be helpful, this does not cause side effects like weight gain, etc , it is just a myth that people refer to.

5.I would also suggest you try ANAPHASE shampoo, if available,it is helpful in increasing the circulation to the scalp and strengthens the hair roots as well

As I mentioned previously ,weight gain will indirectly lead to hair loss, it is a contributing factor. Hence keep your weight under control.

I suggest you try these for at least 3 months for good results.

I hope I answered your questions

Wish you good health.

---