Bay Area doctor finds link between Ozempic and hair loss

Key Points:

• A recent study published in Science Progress has linked GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, to hair loss during periods of rapid weight loss, with semaglutide and tirzepatide showing the highest rates.
• Dr. Paradi Mirmirani of UCSF noted hair loss is most common in patients using higher doses of GLP-1s for obesity treatment or rapid weight loss, but is less frequent in those using lower doses for Type 2 diabetes; the hair loss is typically temporary and manageable.
• The study reviewed 24 prior studies and found that patients on GLP-1 drugs were 3.4 times more likely to experience hair loss compared to those not taking the drugs, with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia being the most common types.
• Mirmirani recommends patients minimize hair loss risk by avoiding severe caloric restriction, maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, and using topical treatments like minoxidil if needed, emphasizing that hair shedding often stabilizes with these measures.
• Women were found to be more susceptible to hair thinning on semaglutide and tirzepatide due to a higher propensity for weight loss on these medications.