Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a medication prescribed for inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. While it effectively reduces gastrointestinal inflammation, some patients report hair loss as a side effect.
Entyvio is a gut-selective biologic therapy. It blocks immune cells from entering the gut lining, reducing inflammation. This targeted approach minimizes systemic immune suppression, which differentiates it from other biologics.
Hair loss is listed as a potential side effect of Entyvio, though it's not among the most common. Clinical trials reported hair thinning in less than 1% of patients. The exact mechanism isn't fully understood, but it may relate to stress on the body or indirect immune system effects.
| Type | Description | Associated with Entyvio? |
|---|---|---|
| Telogen effluvium | Temporary hair shedding due to stress or illness | Possible |
| Alopecia areata | Autoimmune attack on hair follicles | Unlikely |
| Androgenetic alopecia | Pattern hair loss | Unrelated |
If experiencing hair loss while taking Entyvio, patients should consult their healthcare provider. They may recommend nutritional support, stress management, or alternative treatments if hair loss is severe. Some patients find that hair regrowth occurs after stopping the medication.
I noticed hair thinning in a patient during my clinical rotation. After evaluating their treatment plan, we adjusted their vitamin D levels and monitored their response. Hair regrowth began within three months.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, managing underlying conditions and reducing stress are key strategies for maintaining hair health during medical treatments.