Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain medications. Medications can cause hair loss by interfering with the normal cycle of scalp hair growth, leading to two types of hair loss: telogen effluvium and anagen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is the most common type of drug-induced hair loss and occurs when hair follicles enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle prematurely, leading to hair shedding. Anagen effluvium occurs when hair follicles are damaged during the growth phase of the hair cycle, leading to hair loss.

Here is a list of medications that may cause hair loss in females:

• Acne medications containing vitamin A (retinoids)
• Antidepressants and mood stabilizers, including paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), bupropion (Wellbutrin), citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), amitriptyline (Elavil), and valproic acid (Depakote)
• Anticonvulsants, such as trimethadione (Tridione) and valproic acid (Depakote)
• Antithyroid medications used to treat hyperthyroidism, such as methimazole (Tapazole) and propylthiouracil
• Beta-blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure
• Blood thinners, including heparin and warfarin (Coumadin)
• Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as methotrexate and leflunomide
• Immunosuppressants used to treat autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
• Weight loss drugs, such as amphetamines

Its important to note that hair loss is a relatively rare side effect of most medications, and it usually occurs within three months of taking the medication. The severity of hair loss depends on the type of medication, dosage, and individual sensitivity to the drug. Most hair loss caused by medications is reversible, and hair usually starts growing back a few months after stopping the medication. If you suspect that a medication is causing your hair loss, its important to speak with your healthcare provider before stopping the medication or changing the dosage.