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Real members of MyMSTeam 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.

Can DMT cause hair loss

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hopkins, MN
August 28
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Answer Summary

Members shared mixed experiences about whether DMT can cause hair loss, with some reporting thinning or loss tied to specific medications like... Read more

Members shared mixed experiences about whether DMT can cause hair loss, with some reporting thinning or loss tied to specific medications like Tecfidera and Aubagio. Several members noted that hair loss was listed as a side effect, and one member was told the thinning would grow back over time. A few practical tips were shared, including taking hair, skin, and nail vitamins and hair growth supplements to help manage the issue.

A MyMSTeam Member

I lost mine before I was diagnosed with MS due to inherited male pattern baldness. Now I look like this and have for a long time... 😊

August 28
MyMSTeam

Yes, some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can cause hair thinning or loss. While it's not a symptom of MS itself, certain treatments used to manage it have been linked to this side effect.

Teriflunomide (Aubagio) is the most commonly associated DMT when it comes to hair thinning. One large study found it was responsible Show Full Answer

Yes, some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can cause hair thinning or loss. While it's not a symptom of MS itself, certain treatments used to manage it have been linked to this side effect.

Teriflunomide (Aubagio) is the most commonly associated DMT when it comes to hair thinning. One large study found it was responsible for hair loss in 42% of people taking DMTs who experienced alopecia. The good news? It's usually mild, temporary, and often doesn't require stopping the medication.

A MyMSTeam member shared: "I'm on Aubagio and have been for two years. I did have some hair thinning, but not so that anyone could notice. It only lasted a couple months and started at about month three."

Other DMTs that have been linked to hair loss include:
- Interferon-beta medications
- Immunosuppressive agents used off-label for MS
- Mitoxantrone (used off-label), though hair typically grows back after treatment ends It's also worth considering that other medications taken alongside a DMT — like antidepressants — can contribute to hair loss too. Stress related to living with MS can also be a factor.

⚠️ Never stop or adjust your DMT without speaking to your neurologist first, as this could trigger a relapse. If hair loss is concerning you, bring it up with your care team — they can help identify the cause and explore options.

August 28
A MyMSTeam Member

I have had significant hair thinning , I take Aubagio. I was told it was a side effect and that it would grow back after a while.

August 31
A MyMSTeam Member

hiya Tam how you doing my friend

August 28
A MyMSTeam Member

big hugs my comical pal flipster

August 31

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