Does metoprolol cause hair loss?
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker used for high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure, can cause hair loss (alopecia) as a rare side effect. Clinical data and post-marketing reports list it, but it's not common—occurring in less than 1% of patients in trials.[1][2] Hair loss is typically temporary and reversible after stopping the drug.
How common is hair loss with metoprolol?
In placebo-controlled studies, hair loss was reported in 1 in 100 to 1 in 1,000 users, often telogen effluvium (diffuse shedding from disrupted hair growth cycles). Real-world data from FDA adverse event reports shows higher anecdotal rates, but these aren't controlled for other factors like stress or age.[3][4]
Which beta-blockers cause hair loss?
All beta-blockers carry a risk, but metoprolol and propranolol have more reports than atenolol or bisoprolol. The mechanism involves beta-2 receptor blockade slowing scalp blood flow and follicle metabolism.[5]
What if you're experiencing hair loss on metoprolol?
Consult a doctor before stopping—sudden discontinuation risks rebound hypertension or heart issues. They may switch to another beta-blocker, add minoxidil, or test for thyroid issues/multiple causes. Most cases resolve within 3-6 months of dose adjustment.[2][6]
Alternatives to metoprolol with lower hair loss risk
ACE inhibitors (lisinopril), ARBs (losartan), or calcium channel blockers (amlodipine) have fewer alopecia reports. For heart failure, carvedilol (another beta-blocker) shows similar low risk but better tolerability in some studies.[1][7]
[1]: FDA Label - Lopressor (metoprolol tartrate), https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/017963s038lbl.pdf
[2]: Drugs.com Side Effects - Metoprolol, https://www.drugs.com/sfx/metoprolol-side-effects.html
[3]: Mayo Clinic - Metoprolol, https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metoprolol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071141
[4]: FAERS Database via FDA, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/questions-and-answers-fdas-adverse-event-reporting-system-faers/fda-adverse-event-reporting-system-faers-public-dashboard
[5]: American Hair Loss Association - Beta Blockers, https://www.americanhairloss.org/drug-induced-hair-loss/beta-blockers
[6]: WebMD - Beta-Blockers and Hair Loss, https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/drugs-hair-loss
[7]: UpToDate - Beta Blockers in Hypertension, https://www.uptodate.com/contents/beta-blockers-in-the-management-of-hypertension