Hair loss is absolutely a valid concern, and it's one that many people with RA on methotrexate share. It can feel distressing, especially when it affects how you look and feel about yourself.
The good news is that hair loss from methotrexate is usually mild, and for most people, it does improve after stopping the medication Show Full Answer
Hair loss is absolutely a valid concern, and it's one that many people with RA on methotrexate share. It can feel distressing, especially when it affects how you look and feel about yourself.
The good news is that hair loss from methotrexate is usually mild, and for most people, it does improve after stopping the medication. However, there's an important caution — if you have a family history of male- or female-pattern hair loss, methotrexate may speed up thinning, and in some cases that loss could be longer-lasting. Before stopping methotrexate on your own, it's really worth talking to your rheumatologist first. Here's why:
- Stopping methotrexate without guidance could lead to RA flares and increased joint damage
- Your doctor may be able to lower your dose, which could reduce hair loss while still managing your RA
- They might suggest folic acid supplements, which can help with some methotrexate side effects
- There may be alternative medications that work better for you without the same hair-related side effects
Bringing this up with your rheumatologist means you don't have to choose between your hair and your joint health — there may be a middle ground worth exploring first.
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