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Quincy IL Integrative & Functional Medicine: Hair Loss While on LDN and Thyroid Medication

Updated: Jul 31

Introduction

Hair loss can be distressing, especially when managing chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. If you’ve recently started low-dose naltrexone (LDN) and noticed hair shedding or thinning, you may be wondering about its connection to your thyroid medication or other factors. This guide offers practical recommendations to address your concerns while maintaining your overall health.


Understanding the Issue

LDN is often used to manage symptoms of fibromyalgia and Lyme disease, such as pain and fatigue. However, some patients report hair loss as a side effect. Since you’re also on thyroid medication, prescribed years ago for fibromyalgia-related aches and joint pain, it’s possible that interactions between LDN and thyroid hormones are contributing. Your improved pain and energy levels on LDN are encouraging, but hair thinning—especially with already fine hair—needs careful evaluation.


Recommendations for Addressing Hair Loss

1. Consult an LDN-Experienced Physician

Your functional doctor’s limited expertise with LDN highlights the need for a specialist. An LDN-knowledgeable physician can assess potential drug interactions and tailor your treatment. Find providers through resources like the LDN Research Trust.

2. Re-evaluate LDN Dosage

Hair shedding may be dose-related. Discuss pausing LDN temporarily or restarting at a lower dose (e.g., 0.001 mg–1.5 mg), with gradual increases to minimize side effects. This can help determine if LDN is the culprit.

3. Test Thyroid Function

LDN may influence thyroid function, potentially affecting your thyroid medication’s effectiveness. Request a comprehensive thyroid panel, including:

  • TSH

  • Free T3

  • Free T4

  • Reverse T3

  • Thyroid antibodies (TPO and TG)

These results will guide whether your thyroid dose needs adjustment.

4. Avoid Abruptly Stopping Thyroid Medication

Suddenly discontinuing thyroid medication can disrupt hormonal balance and worsen symptoms. Work with your physician to make any changes, guided by recent lab results.

5. Explore Other Hair Loss Causes

Chronic conditions like Lyme disease and fibromyalgia can contribute to hair loss through:

  • Nutritional deficiencies: Test for iron, ferritin, vitamin D, B12, zinc, and magnesium.

  • Hormonal imbalances: Check estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol levels.

  • Inflammation: Systemic inflammation from Lyme disease may affect hair growth.

  • Other medications: Review all medications and supplements for potential side effects.

  • Consult a dermatologist with hairloss expertise

6. Support Hair Health

While investigating causes, try these supportive measures:

  • Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos.

  • Discuss supplements like biotin or omega-3s with your doctor.

  • Ensure adequate protein intake for hair growth.

7. Track Symptoms

Keep a log of hair shedding, pain, fatigue, and side effects. This can help your doctor identify patterns and adjust treatment.

8. Consider a Temporary LDN Pause

If other causes are ruled out, a trial period off LDN may clarify its role in hair loss. Weigh the benefits (improved pain and energy) against side effects with your physician.

Next Steps

  • Schedule a consultation with an LDN-experienced physician.

  • Request a full thyroid panel and tests for nutritional or hormonal imbalances.

  • Discuss LDN dose adjustments or a temporary pause.

  • Avoid changing thyroid medication without medical supervision.

Conclusion

Hair loss while on LDN and thyroid medication is complex but manageable with the right approach. By consulting an LDN expert, evaluating thyroid function, and exploring other causes, you can address hair shedding while preserving the benefits of your treatment. Stay proactive, track your symptoms, and work closely with your healthcare team.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.

Resources

  • LDN Research Trust for provider directories and educational materials.

  • Contact your physician for personalized lab testing and treatment adjustments.

  • www.yoonhangkim.com offers more than two decades of expertise in LDN therapy, integrative & functional medicine.


📞 Now accepting new patients for virtual consultations


Yoon Hang Kim, MD is a board-certified physician specializing in integrative and functional medicine. He provides personalized, root-cause care for chronic and complex conditions through a holistic, evidence-informed approach. At Direct Integrative Care, Dr. Kim blends conventional medicine with lifestyle, nutritional, and systems-based strategies to help patients uncover the deeper imbalances behind illness. 🩺 Telemedicine appointments available for residents of Quincy, IL, state of Illinois, Missouri, Georgia, Florida, and Texas. Get to the root. Feel better. Stay better.

 
 
 

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