Hydroxyurea is a medication prescribed for various medical conditions, including certain cancers and sickle cell anemia. Hair loss can indeed be a side effect of hydroxyurea, though its occurrence is not universal among all patients.
Is Hair Loss a Side Effect?
Hair loss is a recognized side effect associated with hydroxyurea treatment. Some reports suggest that up to 10% of patients may experience a type of hair loss known as anagen effluvium of the scalp. However, other sources indicate that the precise commonality is not definitively known, with some patients reporting it and others not.
The hair changes typically involve thinning rather than complete baldness. Hair usually regrows once treatment with hydroxyurea concludes. The new hair might, however, exhibit a slightly different color or texture than before.
Why Hydroxyurea Can Affect Hair
Hydroxyurea exerts its effects by interfering with the process of DNA synthesis within cells. Specifically, the drug inactivates an enzyme called ribonucleotide reductase, which is crucial for the production of DNA. Hair follicle cells are among the body’s fastest-growing cells, making them particularly sensitive to medications that disrupt cell division.
By inhibiting DNA synthesis, hydroxyurea can cause these rapidly dividing hair follicle cells to halt their growth in a specific phase of the cell cycle, known as the G1/S phase. This disruption leads to the premature shedding of hair, as the normal hair growth cycle, particularly the anagen (growth) phase, is interrupted. The drug’s action on these cells explains why hair changes can occur during treatment.
Coping with Hair Changes
For individuals experiencing hair changes while on hydroxyurea, several practical strategies can help manage the situation. Adopting a gentle hair care routine is beneficial, which includes using mild shampoos and brushing hair with a soft brush. It is also advisable to exercise caution when using hair styling products such as hair spray, bleaches, dyes, and perms, as these can further stress fragile hair.
While not directly for hair, some patients find that moisturizing creams can alleviate general skin dryness, which might be a related side effect. It is always important to communicate any concerns about hair changes with a healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and may suggest options like minoxidil, though any new treatment should only be started under medical guidance. User experiences also suggest that protein conditioners and certain hair growth oils might be helpful for managing shedding and promoting growth.