Prednisone & Hair Loss

Hair loss is a common side effect of many prescription drugs. Although it is not often discussed by physicians, it is something that many patients worry about. The corticosteroid Prednisone is one medication that has been linked to hair loss.

Prednisone Effects On Hair

• One of the side effects of taking prednisone is thinning scalp hair.

Mechanism of Hair Loss

• Prednisone causes hair loss because it disrupts the hormonal balance that stimulates hair growth.

Medical uses of Prednisone

• Prednisone is a steroid used to treat conditions such as allergies, asthma, lupus and psoriasis.

Timeframe for hair loss

• Hair loss generally occurs after taking Prednisone for several weeks at a high dose of 5 milligrams or more.

Reversal of side effects

• The hair loss from Prednisone is temporary. To reverse, stop taking the steroid and consult with your physician about other treatments.