Dilantin, Phenobarbital, and Female Hair Loss

I am a 50 year old female,who’s hair is thinning rapidly in the last year. I have been taking Dilantin and Phenobarbital since the age of two years old. I know hair thins out as we age, but lately i find my brushes full of my hair. What do you suggest i take for this. I have tried several things and nothing is working. Please respond !!

The first step in evaluating hair loss in women, after a detailed history and physical exam, is to rule out any underlying medical causes of hair loss which can be treated. If clinically appropriate, the following disease processes should be considered: anemia, thyroid disease, connective tissue disease, gynecological conditions and emotional stress. Furthermore, over 50% of women going through change of life hormone fluctuations (menopause) experience significant hair loss.

You need to follow-up with your doctor and find out if there are other medical or hormonal issues that may be causing your hair loss. I doubt Dilantin (phenytoin) and phenobarbital are causing your hair loss at this stage in your life — especially since you have been taking the medication for the last 48 years.