Drug Abuse and Hair Loss: What You Need to Know

Aug 23, 2022

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It’s no secret that drug abuse can seriously impact your health. The CDC reports drug abuse can lead to several health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.

But did you know that it can also cause hair loss? It is just one of the many ways drug addiction can take a toll on your body. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug addiction, getting help immediately is essential. There are many rehab centers out there that can provide the support and treatment you need to get your life back on track.

Read on to know more about drugs that cause hair loss and how addiction treatment can help.

How Does Substance Abuse Cause Hair Loss?

There are a few ways in which substance abuse can lead to hair loss. One way is through the direct effects of the drugs on the hair follicles. Certain drugs, such as methamphetamines, can cause the hair follicles to become damaged and lead to hair loss.

Another way substance abuse can cause hair loss is through the indirect effects of the drugs. For example, drugs taken to treat anxiety or depression can sometimes have the side effect of hair loss. In addition, drugs taken to help with weight loss can also lead to hair loss.

When you suffer from anxiety or depression, you tend to pluck out your hair without realizing it. It is a condition known as trichotillomania, which is common among people with mental health problems.

Some common drugs that may cause nervous hair-pulling include:

  • Cocaine
  • Amphetamines
  • Methamphetamines
  • Ecstasy
  • LSD
  • PCP

How Bad Will Drug-Related Hair Loss Get?

The severity of hair loss due to drug abuse will differ from person to person. It depends on the type of drugs being abused, how often they are used, and the individual’s overall health. Generally speaking, the more potent the drug, the more likely it is to cause hair loss.

Drugs taken intravenously (injected directly into the veins) are also more likely to cause hair loss than oral ones.

Some drugs, such as methamphetamines and anabolic steroids, can cause hair loss called telogen effluvium. Hairs enter the resting phase (telogen) prematurely and fall out before they should.

Other drugs, such as ecstasy and certain antibiotics, can cause hair loss called anagen effluvium. Hairs are forced into the resting phase before they’ve completed the growth phase.

How Can You Treat Hair Loss Caused By Drug Abuse?

Treatment options are available if you or someone you love is struggling with hair loss caused by drug abuse. The first step is to seek professional help from a doctor or addiction specialist.

They can help you identify the underlying cause of hair loss and develop a treatment plan.

Addiction treatment programs can also provide support and resources for managing hair loss. You will learn ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotions that may be triggering your hair loss.

If you are searching for drug rehab centers in Greenville, SC, contact Vertical Treatment Centers. We provide evidence-based treatment for those struggling with addiction.

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