Hair Loss Associated with Sertraline: Two Case Reports and Review

Abstract

Introduction: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely advised as antidepressants. Association of SSRIs with hair loss is rare and limited to a few case reports. In this case study, two patients developed diffuse hair loss during sertraline treatment. Case Presentation: Mr. A was a 47-year-old married man with a diagnosis of panic disorder according to the DSM-V criteria and specific phobia (claustrophobia). Approximately 8 weeks after starting sertraline intake, he noticed hair loss. Decreasing the dose of his medication led to the resolution of hair loss within 6 weeks. Ms. M was a woman with major depressive disorder who complained of hair loss during treatment with sertraline within only 2 months of treatment (at the beginning of treatment) while she was receiving a low dose of sertraline (unlike the other case). Conclusions: SSRIs-induced hair loss is an infrequently observed adverse effect that may be overlooked. These case reports reinforce the need for maintaining a high index of suspicion regarding any incident of sudden hair loss occurring in persons taking even low doses of SSRIs like sertraline. Hair loss should also be questioned during the control sessions in addition to other side effects as it may influence patient’s outer appearance and negatively affect his/her adherence to treatment.