Hair loss (alopecia) has been reported as a common side effect with atezolizumab (brand name: Tecentriq) when used with other anticancer treatments in patients being treated for advanced lung cancer. Atezolizumab may also lead to hormone gland problems which can result in hair loss.

Reported side effects may not always be due to Tecentriq, especially if you are receiving more than one cancer treatment that may also lead to hair loss.

When Tecentriq was given as a single agent for treatment of bladder cancer (which is no longer an FDA-approved use), hair loss (alopecia) was not reported as a side effect by the manufacturer.

Many other side effects besides hair loss, including serious or life-threatening reactions, can occur with Tecentriq. Talk to your doctor about your cancer treatment regimen and what side effects you may experience. Always consult with your doctor about any medication side effects during cancer treatment.

Related: Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) side effects (in more detail)

Hair loss with Tecentriq in lung cancer patients

Studies in patients with non-small cell lung cancer or small cell lung cancer and also treated with other cancer medicines showed that 35% of these patients (847/2421) experienced hair loss. Over 50% of patients received atezolizumab (Tecentriq) for longer than 6 months and 29% for longer than 12 months.

In the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) IMpower150 study as reported by the manufacturer, 48% of 393 patients who received atezolizumab with bevacizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin (other cancer treatments) experienced hair loss (all grades), while 46% of 394 patients that received bevacizumab, paclitaxel, and carboplatin (without atezolizumab) also had hair loss.

In a study evaluating small cell lung cancer (SCLC), 37% of 198 patients who received atezolizumab with carboplatin and etoposide experienced hair loss (all grades), while 35% of 196 patients who received placebo plus carboplatin and etoposide reported hair loss.

Hair loss with Tecentriq in patients that develop hormone gland problems

Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) can lead to hormone gland problems (especially in the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pituitary gland and pancreas). According to the manufacturer, hair loss can be a symptom that your hormone glands are not working properly. Call or see your healthcare provider right away if you develop hair loss anytime during your treatment or even after your treatment has ended.

Bottom Line

• Hair loss (alopecia) has been reported as a common side effect with atezolizumab (Tecentriq) when used with other anticancer treatments in patients with lung cancer.
• Hair loss was not reported by the manufacturer when atezolizumab was used as a single agent for the treatment of bladder cancer (bladder cancer is no longer an FDA-approved use for Tecentriq).
• Tecentriq may also cause hormone gland problems which can lead to hair loss.
• Side effects may not always be due to atezolizumab, especially if you are receiving other cancer treatments. Speak with your doctor about expected side effects with your treatment regimen.

This is not all the information you need to know about atezolizumab (Tecentriq) for its safe and effective use and does not replace your doctor's instructions. Review the full Tecentriq information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.