Drug-Induced Changes

Term: Drug-induced changes

Definition (plain English):
Some medications can cause temporary or permanent changes to the nails as a side effect.

Examples:

• Antibiotics (tetracyclines may cause nail discolouration)
• Chemotherapy drugs (can cause Beau’s lines or shedding)
• Antimalarials (may cause pigment bands)

How it relates to nails:
Medications can affect the nail matrix (where the nail grows) or the nail bed, leading to changes in colour, growth interruptions, brittleness, or ridging.

Confusable with:
Changes from systemic illness, nutritional deficiencies, or trauma.

Disclaimer:
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a diagnosis. Always seek medical advice if you are concerned.