Drug-induced hair colour changes

J Clin Pharm Ther. 1992 Oct;17(5):297-302. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2710.1992.tb01307.x.

Abstract

Drug-induced hair colour changes are not a common adverse effect from medications. A wide variety of drugs have been implicated in causing hair colour changes but very few have data to support a true relationship. Of the drugs reported, chloroquine and cancer chemotherapeutic agents have the best evidence to support an association. Other drugs, such as p-aminobenzoic acid, calcium pantothenate, anthralin, chinoform, mephenesin, minoxidil, propofol, valproic acid, and verapamil await confirmatory data. Drug-induced causes should be considered in any patient with unexplained hair colour changes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • 4-Aminobenzoic Acid / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Chloroquine / adverse effects*
  • Eyebrows / drug effects
  • Eyelashes / drug effects
  • Hair Color / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Scalp / drug effects
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Chloroquine
  • 4-Aminobenzoic Acid