Efficacy of hydroxyzine in the treatment of trichotillomania: an open-label study

Objective: Trichotillomania (TM) is a complex psychiatric disorder characterized by repetitive severe hair pulling which may cause hair loss. Trichotillomania is a rare disorder whose actual incidence remains unknown. Treatment of trichotillomania includes psychotherapy and various medication. We examined the efficacy and safety of hydroxyzine in the treatment of trichotillomania.

Methods: Twelve adolescent patient with diagnosis of TM were administered 30 mg/day of hydroxyzine for 4 weeks. The patients were assessed before the treatment and reassessed after one month by using the Children Depression Inventory (CDI), the Children State Anxiety Inventory (CSAI), and the Children Trait Anxiety Inventory (CTAI).

Results: All patients who completed the treatment showed significant improvement with the whole symptoms. The total CSAI and CTAI scores also revealed significant improvement at the end of the study period (p<0,002). The total CDI scores were not found statistically significant.

Conclusion: In conclusion, findings suggest that hydroxyzine may be an effective monotherapy for trichotillomania.