Geeta Varma Geeta Varma Asked 9 months ago

Does leflunomide cause hair loss?

I recently started taking Leflunomide for my rheumatoid arthritis. My hair feels thinner than before, and I'm concerned about hair loss. Is this a common side effect of this medication?

5

5 answers

Nikhil Deshmukh Nikhil Deshmukh Joined Feb 2026 9 months ago
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Actually yes, yaar. Leflunomide did cause some hair thinning for me when I started it, but my doctor prescribed some biotin which helped control it after a few weeks.

Shalini Sen Shalini Sen Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Yes, hair loss is a known side effect of this medication. Since I already deal with hair thinning due to PCOS, my rheumatologist discussed this carefully before starting my dosage, so definitely bring it up with your doctor.

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Suresh Nair Suresh Nair Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

I had noticeable hair shedding in the first two months of leflunomide. I kept my scalp clean, avoided harsh chemicals, and the hair fall stabilized once my body got adjusted to the drug.

Ananya Sharma Ananya Sharma Joined May 2026 6 months ago

I completely understand how terrifying it is to see your hair fall out while starting a new medicine. It is a common side effect of leflunomide, but please don't stop the medicine on your own; consult your doctor first.

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Pooja Patel Pooja Patel Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

I just went through this exact phase last month. My doctor temporarily reduced my dose and added a specific supplement, and thankfully my hair fall has almost stopped now.

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