I started losing hair on hydroxycloriquine. I lost about 1/2 my hair. Then they added a biologic, some made me e lose more some didn't. It's an up and down cycle for me. About a year ago my daughter came across Tio Nacho shampoo. My rheumatologist scribe also recommended this. It has helped a lot. But again depending on medications I can still lose hair. Right now I'm on a regrowth cycle. My hair is thickening up some. So the Cimzia and leflonimide hasn't thinned my hair! Yay!!
June 17
Hair loss is a well-known side effect of methotrexate, and many myRAteam members have shared similar experiences. One myRAteam member shared that they lost 50% of their hair while on methotrexate, and another noted significant changes in hair texture and structure over time. So you're definitely not alone in this.
Folic Show Full Answer
Hair loss is a well-known side effect of methotrexate, and many myRAteam members have shared similar experiences. One myRAteam member shared that they lost 50% of their hair while on methotrexate, and another noted significant changes in hair texture and structure over time. So you're definitely not alone in this.
Folic acid is usually the first recommendation to help reduce hair loss, but it doesn't work for everyone. If it's not helping, here are some options worth discussing with a rheumatologist:
- Adjusting the dosage — a lower dose of methotrexate may reduce hair loss
- Switching medications — other DMARDs may be considered depending on how well methotrexate is managing RA symptoms
- Seeing a dermatologist — they can help rule out other causes and suggest targeted treatments
- Being gentle with hair care — avoiding tight hairstyles, brushing less frequently, and using a light touch can help minimize further loss
It's also important to contact a healthcare provider right away if large clumps of hair are falling out during washing or combing, or if patchy or sudden hair loss occurs.
June 17