Does Citalopram Cause Hair Loss? (5+ Tips)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 06/02/2024 | Next review date: 06/02/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss whether citalopram causes hair loss as its potential side effect or not. We will also discuss what research suggests on this, the possible link between citalopram and hair loss, factors contributing to hair loss while taking citalopram and management tips to reduce hair loss experienced with citalopram.

Does citalopram cause hair loss?

Yes, citalopram can cause hair loss. Although it is not a commonly reported side effect of citalopram, it’s essential to keep in mind that an individual’s reactions to medications can be different and everyone can experience side effects differently based on their specific conditions. (1,3)

Citalopram is an antidepressant. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It normally works by balancing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps in boosting mood and reduces depression and anxiety. (1)

If you’re experiencing hair loss while taking citalopram, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine whether the symptoms are related to citalopram usage or any other underlying condition.

How does citalopram cause hair loss?

The exact mechanism of hair loss related to citalopram is not clear. However, it is believed that serotonin imbalances from citalopram can contribute to hair-related issues. (1,2)

An imbalance in the levels of serotonin may be associated with mood changes and chronic stress can lead to hair loss. During stress, your body releases a stress hormone called cortisol which can affect your hair growth or cause a condition in which there is more hair shedding than usual. (2)

Serotonin has vasoconstrictive properties which means it can narrow blood vessels that carry essential nutrients and oxygen to your hair follicles. If serotonin makes the flow of blood to hair follicles less, it can impact hair growth and may lead to hair fall. (1,2,5)

It’s important to remember that individuals are different and may react differently to certain medications so everyone doesn’t need to experience hair loss due to citalopram use. If you are experiencing changes in hair growth or hair loss, reach out to your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

What does research suggest?

As per a research study, a 76-year-old woman was brought to a psychiatric ward because of weird behavioural issues. Doctors diagnosed that she was suffering from dementia and kept her on citalopram 20mg and aripiprazole (Abilify) 5mg daily for treatment. (2)

After 3.5 months the woman complained of hair loss on her scalp. Doctors suspected citalopram as the cause of hair loss and stopped. After a few months, she recovered her hair growth. Although hair loss related to drug intake is more common with other SSRIs, as compared to citalopram. (2)

If you notice side effects like hair loss probably from the medication that you’re taking, it’s important to stop it early. Don’t worry too much as hair loss can often be reversed. (2)

What factors contribute to hair loss while taking citalopram?

Although hair loss is not a common side effect of citalopram, some individuals may experience it due to multiple factors including: (6)

Individual sensitivity: People can respond differently to certain medications and what may be well-tolerated by one person might cause side effects in another. Hair loss can be an uncommon reaction for certain individuals.
Underlying health conditions: If you have other health problems that may link to hair loss, citalopram can exacerbate this issue.
Genetic factors: If your family has a history of hair loss, it might increase the likelihood of hair-related issues.
Combine medication effects: Sometimes, when you take more than one medicine, they can interact and cause unexpected side effects.
Age and hormonal changes: As you get older your body changes and hormones can shift, this fluctuation in hormones might affect your hair growth. (4)

Remember, not everyone will experience hair loss from citalopram, if you’re worried or have any concerns talk to your doctor about the issue.

What are tips to reduce hair loss experienced with citalopram?

If you’re experiencing hair loss while taking citalopram, here are some managing tips that can help you: (5,6)

Consult your healthcare provider: Before doing anything talk to your doctor, they can figure out why this might be happening and what’s best for you.

Consider medication adjustment: If your doctor believes that citalopram is the cause of hair loss, they may consider adjusting the medication dosage or exploring other alternative treatments.

Evaluate other medications: If you’re taking multiple medications at one time, discuss this with your doctor to ensure there are no interactions which may be contributing to hair loss.

Maintain a healthy diet: Eating healthy is good for your overall well-being including your hair. Make sure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals. (5)

Manage stress: Chronic stress can also contribute to hair loss. Engage yourself in activities that relax your mind and body like inhaling and exhaling deep breaths, yoga and some meditation that may help in reducing stress.

Avoid tight hairstyles: Use a mild shampoo and be gentle when washing or brushing your hair. Avoid tying your hair tight, which can cause stress on your hair shaft and may promote further hair loss.

Protect your hair from the sun: Too much exposure to the sun can damage your hair. Consider wearing a hat or other coverings when spending extended periods in the sun.

What are the additional side effects of citalopram?

Some common side effects of citalopram other than hair loss may include: (1)

Nausea
Fatigue
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Increased sweating
Weight changes (gain or lose weight)
Sexual dysfunction (changes in libido)
Headache
Insomnia (1)

In this brief article, we have discussed the hair loss problem associated with citalopram use. As a pharmacist, I would recommend to anyone who is dealing with hair loss problems related to citalopram usage or any other antidepressants, to consult with your doctor right away.

Do not change or adjust the dosage on your own. Start taking diet that is rich in nutrients and consider eating food that promotes your hair growth, such as high in vitamins and minerals like biotin and iron.

From my personal experience, stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, healthy diet and lifestyle modifications play a great role in promoting hair health.