Beta Blockers and Hair Loss

There are several prescription drugs that may cause hair loss as a side effect. Beta blockers are among them.

Function

• The purpose of beta blockers is to aid in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) or arrhythmia. They decrease heart contractions in both rate and force.

Side Effects

• Among the possible side effects of using beta blockers, hair loss is one that your doctor may not mention, but likely to occur.

Identification

• Hair loss caused by beta blockers is typically thinning of the hair. In women it is more noticeable as it tends to affect the whole scalp. In men the hair loss may be all encompassing, but it may also only affect the front/top of the scalp.

Types

• Types of prescription beta blockers that experts know to cause hair loss include Tenormin, Lopressor, Corgard, Blocadren, Inderal and Inderal LA.

Prevention

• Your doctor may be able to change or adjust your beta blocker prescription in order to attempt to lessen the hair-loss effects. However, it is likely that, unless you are able to discontinue the use of the beta blockers, hair loss will be a sacrifice made in order to maintain your health.