Methotrexate and hair loss

I was on methotrexate for a short time and was started on folate supplement. Folate is over the counter.

Methotrexate can cause hair thinning and then hair loss, because it is a chemotherapy drug. The hair usually grows back in 3-6 months after discontinuation of treatment. Some bold patches may remain even after discontinuation, but that would be a rare event.

Yes, side effects is hair loss. After being on it for a year or so and then doc discontinuing it I am now seeing sprouts coming up. Texture was bad as well.

@barbiesue Yes, I started experiencing hair loss on it as well, and it was really hard for me. I knew what methotrexate was, and asked my rheumatologist if I’d lose my hair. He put me on Rx folic acid and assured me that on such a low dose, I wouldn’t have hair loss. I told him, I’ve lost it once before (cancer treatment), so if it’s going to happen again again, you just need to tell me so I’m prepared. He assured me again I would be fine.

Two months later, out came my hair. I had to stop taking it because in addition to the hair loss, I was getting a rash and terrible itching on my neck and chest one hour after the injection that actually broke skin.

Chemo drugs and other meds, fevers, surgery, and other body stressors all put our hair into a condition known as telogen effluvium (TE).

TE is temporary. You will lose hair over a period of time, but then it will come to an end and your hair will grow back. You cannot “stop” TE while you’re in it. What you CAN do is take very good care of yourself: prioritize good sleep, REDUCE STRESS (stress also causes hair loss), eat well.

Do pull your dermatologist into your care team. Mine put me on Nioxin system 4 shampoo/conditioner kit, because it gently cleanses and conditions the scalp thoroughly, leading to less hair loss over time, as well as a healthy, clean scalp and follicles that allow for new hair to grow in.

Make sure while you are in TE that you don’t get sick, because as I said, fever also causes hair loss. I developed a fever while in active TE, and went into a whole new round of hair loss that lasted about four months.

I don’t tell you this to scare you. I tell you this to suggest what worked for me, and that it is temporary. And here’s a bright spot:

Amazon has AMAZING hair toppers! They gently clip onto the top of your head and add fullness. They are really well made, and you can buy either human hair toppers ($$$$), or synthetic (with highlights, even!) for under $50. If you have a wig store nearby, visit them too for advice. You can try on, and get a feel for what you like. My self confidence soared when I realized I didn’t have to let my hair loss bring me down. And the ladies who work there are some of the sweetest you’ll find, truly.

Take care of yourself. Prioritize your self-care. You will come through it, I promise. 💛

J started losing hair when I was first put on methotrexate After about 3 or 4 months is slowed down and now I hardly notice any hair loss. Everyone reacts differently. I noticed hair loss again when I started Orencia but it has slowed down as well

Yes I also take folic acid and I'm an entrepreneur they sell a great Daily you gummy so I have not experienced any hair loss. Best wishes I hope your having a great holiday season