Hair loss, medically termed alopecia, can be caused by a number of factors. Among these causes are taking certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Some medications on this list may be surprising because they are fairly common.
Misconceptions
Many people believe that it is only prescription medications that can cause hair loss, but there is a well documented list of over-the-counter medications that can cause alopecia as well.
Considerations
Aside from medication taken in chemotherapy treatment, it is not all that common for drugs to cause hair loss.
Effects
Some of the more commonly prescribed drugs causing hair loss are sertraline (Zoloft), certain seizure medications, topiramate (Topamax) and some other medications taken for arthritis, depression, high blood pressure and heart problems.
Potential
Fortunately hair loss that has been brought on by taking certain medications can usually be completely reversed by stopping the medication, although you should not do so without first consulting your physician.
Fun Fact
The drug Lithium has been reported to cause hair loss in as much as 15 percent of the patients to which it is prescribed.
