Hair Loss in Women Taking Zantac

Although Ricardo Azziz, MD, director of the Center for Androgen-Related Disorders at the Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on WebMD.com gives a variety of different causes for hair loss in women, he acknowledges that some medications can cause female hair loss as a side effect. The American Hair Loss Association specifically lists drugs for ulcers, stomach disorders and indigestion, such as Zantac, can cause hair loss in both men and women.

Defined

• Daily hair loss is a healthy part of the hair growth cycle.

  While BeatPsoriasis.com clarifies that daily hair loss is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, women who begin to notice thinning in the hair over the entire scalp may be experiencing female-pattern baldness that can be attributed to a variety of reasons, including medications such as Zantac. If you are taking Zantac and concerned about an increase in hair loss, it's important to consult your doctor for a thorough exam and proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis

• Some patients experience a period of hair loss after a major surgical procedure.

  Because there are many possible reasons for female hair loss, experts at WebMD.com stress the importance of a proper diagnosis and assessment before considering treatment. Since women can easily experience a period of hair loss after a traumatic event, from pregnancy, from improper hair care or even from an infection somewhere in the body, if you are taking Zantac or any medication with hair loss as a side effec, you should see your doctor before assuming your medication is the cause.

Side Effects

• Blurred vision and dizziness are more common side effects of Zantac than hair loss.

  The clinical trials found common side effects of the drug Zantac include diarrhea, headaches or constipation, according to eMedTV, but not necessarily hair loss. However, hair loss is listed as one of the rare but possible side effects of the drug and because it's so rare, the studies can not verify if Zantac is the true cause of the hair loss. You should discuss your experience with your doctor for proper diagnosis.

Misconceptions

• You can consult pill and medication guidebooks for a complete list of side effects.

  While a number of prescription drugs can cause side effects and specifically the side effect of hair loss, your physician may prescribe Zantac without being aware that hair loss is a rare but possible side effect, cautions the American Hair Loss Association. They caution consumers not to rely on their doctors to inform them of possible hair loss side effects but to consult your pharmacist and read the drug manufacturer's complete warnings before starting a new medication.

Expert Insight

• Blood tests can be useful in determining the cause of your hair loss.

  Dermatologist Michael Reed, MD on WebMD.com clarifies that female hair loss can be temporary or permanent. If the condition is caused by a physical condition or outside source such as Zantac that can be addressed, the condition may be temporary. Reed suggests seeing a doctor whose specialty is female pattern balding if you're experiencing excessive scalp thinning. A specialist can do blood tests or even a biopsy of the scalp to ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment.