Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Quick Links
Treatments A-Z Help Center Guidelines Crisis Accessibility
Resources
Emotional Well-Being Living with RA RA Condition Information RA Symptoms RA Treatments All Resources
About myRAteam
What is This Site Terms of Use Privacy policy
Powered By
Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does Methotrexate (injections) And Hydroxychloroquine Cause Hair Loss? I Do Take Folic Acid -- Maybe I Need More?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Port Hope, ON

I've had R.A. for 3 years. I'm a young 75 !

August 10, 2024
•
View reactions
A myRAteam Member

I have used biotin. By the time it goes through you digestive track there isn't enough to go any good. I just started taking Irish Sea Moss capsule. Does wonders for your dry skin too.

August 18, 2024
A myRAteam Member

I am on methotrexate injections with one folic acid tablet a week, I am also prescribed hydroxchloroquine 200mgs twice a day, I have zero negative inflammatory arthritis and osteo arthritis, I have been gradually loosing some of my hair and it has grown back really curly when it used to be quite straight! I don’t take any vitamins but will maybe try biotin as it might well help.

August 18, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Hi Monica, I definitely experienced a lot of thinning. I take folic acid and started taking biotin. It took awhile but the biotin is helping.

August 10, 2024
A myRAteam Member

Methotrexate, a common treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, can cause hair loss, although it is relatively uncommon, affecting 1% to 3% of people taking the drug. Methotrexate works by blocking cells' access to folate, which can impact hair follicles. Taking folic acid can help mitigate this side effect. If hair loss occurs Show Full Answer

Methotrexate, a common treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, can cause hair loss, although it is relatively uncommon, affecting 1% to 3% of people taking the drug. Methotrexate works by blocking cells' access to folate, which can impact hair follicles. Taking folic acid can help mitigate this side effect. If hair loss occurs, increasing the folic acid dose or switching to folinic acid might be recommended.

Hydroxychloroquine is not mentioned in the provided context as a cause of hair loss.

Always consult your rheumatologist to adjust your treatment plan.

August 10, 2024
A myRAteam Member

I've been on methotraxate since 11/2023. So far I haven't noticed that much hair loss. My stylist said humans lose around 100 hairs a day. I too take folic acid once a day. I hope you find answers 😊

August 18, 2024 (edited)

Related content

View All

Has Anyone Else Experienced Significant Hair Loss While Using Methotrexate And/or Humira?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Spring, TX
March 27, 2016

Methotrexate

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Central FL
March 22, 2022

What Are Everyone's Experience With Methotrexate? My RA Doc Just Prescribed It And I Start This Saturday. My Anxiety Is A Little Amped Up.

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Plainfield, IL
April 17, 2024
Chemotherapy Drugs Used for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Side Effects and More
Methotrexate for RA: Safe Use, Side Effects, and What To Expect
Can Methotrexate Change Your Hair Texture?
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in