Alopecia associated with the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: Systematic review

Abstract

We aimed to systematically review published cases of alopecia (hair loss) associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Four electronic databases were searched up to November 16, 2021. Thirty-eight publications describing 71 patients with a total of 81 episodes of alopecia met inclusion criteria. Patients’ age ranged from 7 to 85 years and 80.3% were female. Alopecia most commonly affected scalp (98.6%). Reported time to onset ranged from 3 days to 5 years (median: 8.6 weeks). Discontinuation of the suspected SSRI led to recovery in 63.0% of episodes. Clinicians should be aware of this possible adverse effect of SSRIs.