Hair loss and Tecfidera

[Kristengoodwin]

I'm experiencing hair loss. It is breaking off and I have probably lost half of it. My neuro states that it is not the Tecidera but a result of taking Depakote. He had me on zinc, but it doesn't appear to be helping and my gut is it the Tecfidera.

[Kimba22]

Hair loss is actually pretty common with DMDs. Some it's more common than others, but these are all pretty powerful drugs. I'm having hair loss w/ my DMD ... MS Specialist thought it might be from Gabapentin ... but it can't be, since I've been on that one for several years. The only thing that has changed is my DMD. It's very uncommon with my DMD (Tysabri), but it has been noted ( <1%, .67% ... lucky me).

Using a non-sulphate shampoo might help a little. Nothings was suggested by my dr. (he was surprised to hear about this, and he has over 1200 MS patients), but I've read others try Rogaine.

Best wishes,

[Landshark]

I was losing handfuls of hair in the shower everyday when I started Tysabri. It did slow down after several months. I haven't noticed any change with Tec. It wouldn't surprise me if its causing the hair loss- but maybe it will stop as your body adjusts. I have very thick italian hair so most people didn't notice the loss- but man you should've seen my shower for awhile! It can be scary. I'm thinking about you.

[Kimba22]

I was losing handfuls of hair in the shower everyday when I started Tysabri. It did slow down after several months. I haven't noticed any change with Tec. It wouldn't surprise me if its causing the hair loss- but maybe it will stop as your body adjusts. I have very thick italian hair so most people didn't notice the loss- but man you should've seen my shower for awhile!

Thanks for giving me hope, Landshark! I didn't start noticing this until my 5th infusion of Ty... hoping this slows down soon (finished 11th now). I have thick hair, too, so no one can tell (yet) ... but my shower sure can & so can my brush, garbage can, & vacuum cleaner!

[Temagami]

I lost it with Copaxone- at first they denied it as an effect and later confirmed it. Must be an immune sys. hair follicle connection. It did resolve over time, but yes, those clumps in the shower were unnerving.

[DanielleS]

Hair loss!

I too have lost a ton of hair! Not only have I lost a ton of hair, but I've lost my natural beautiful curls I've discussed this w both my specialist and my hairstylist. My specialist wasn't aware of any connection between hair loss and Copax and now Tec. While there's no solution, I'm happy to at least know that others have experienced this as well--no no, that doesn't sound right--not at all happy that others' hair has thinned, just happy to have someone confirm that it has got to be the medicine