Can gabapentin cause hair loss?
Question posted by rdolch on 15 July 2017
Last updated on 11 April 2019 by Leslieking570
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Answers
I just started taking Gabapentin about 2+ weeks ago for nerve pain for internal shingles.
Almost immediately I had started to lose hair. At first I wasn't concerned as I really have a lot/thick short hair but now it is getting noticeable. I am not 100% sure it is from the gabapentin but it is the only new drug I am taking. I just notified my dr to see what he has to say. I hope it grows back once I stop taking this drug!
Alopecia (hair loss) is considered an uncommon possible side effect.
Dermatologic
Common (1% to 10%): Abrasion, facial edema, purpura, rash, pruritus, acne
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Alopecia, eczema, dry skin, increased sweating, urticaria, hirsutism, seborrhea, cyst, herpes simplex
Rare (less than 0.1%): Stevens-Johnson syndrome, angioedema, erythema multiforme, drug rash (with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms), herpes zoster, skin discolor, skin papules, photosensitive reaction, psoriasis, desquamation, maceration, skin nodules, subcutaneous nodule, melanosis, skin necrosis, local swelling
Frequency not reported: DRESS/multiorgan hypersensitivity.
Related topics
Further information
- Gabapentin uses and safety info
- Gabapentin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Gabapentin (detailed)
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