Does Semaglutide Cause Hair Loss? Understanding Hair Shedding with Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro

Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have significantly changed the landscape of treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs belong to a class known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which help regulate blood glucose and promote substantial weight loss. However, a growing number of patients have raised concerns about hair loss after starting these medications.

The concern is increasingly common on social media and online support groups. Many users report noticing more hair in their brushes, showers, or on pillows within weeks or months of beginning treatment. For some, the change is minor; for others, it’s more pronounced and distressing.

So what’s really going on? Is hair loss a direct side effect of semaglutide—or could it be triggered by other factors, such as rapid weight loss or bodily stress?

Hair loss is not listed as a known or direct adverse effect in the FDA prescribing information for Ozempic (semaglutide) or Wegovy (semaglutide for weight management). However, it has been observed in clinical trials.

• In Wegovy clinical studies, approximately 3% of participants reported hair loss.

• For Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a different medication in the same general class, up to 5% of participants reported hair shedding.

While these percentages are relatively low, they are notable—especially given growing anecdotal evidence from real-world use.

What’s Causing Hair Loss?

The most plausible explanation is telogen effluvium, a common and temporary form of hair loss caused by physiological stress. Rapid weight loss is a well-known trigger for telogen effluvium. When the body undergoes significant changes—like sudden caloric restriction, altered nutrient intake, or hormonal shifts—it may temporarily pause hair growth and push more follicles into the shedding (telogen) phase.

In this context, semaglutide or tirzepatide may not be causing hair loss directly. Instead, the weight loss resulting from these medications—especially if rapid or accompanied by nutritional deficiencies—could be the underlying cause.

In summary: Can semaglutide cause hair loss? Indirectly, yes. The drug itself does not appear to damage hair follicles, but the weight loss and metabolic changes it initiates may lead to temporary hair shedding.

How Common Is Hair Loss with Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro?

Hair loss is not listed as a top adverse effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists, but both clinical trials and real-world experiences suggest it does occur in a minority of users.

Let’s look at what we know:

• In the STEP 5 trial (a phase 3 study of semaglutide for chronic weight management), approximately 3% of participants reported hair loss.

• In the SURMOUNT-1 trial for tirzepatide (Mounjaro), a hair loss incidence of up to 5% was documented among participants receiving the highest doses.

• For Ozempic, which contains semaglutide but is approved for type 2 diabetes rather than weight loss, clinical trial data has not consistently shown hair loss as a reported side effect. However, anecdotal reports of shedding are increasing in online forums and patient communities.

Importantly, these events were generally considered mild and self-limiting. Manufacturers have acknowledged that hair shedding may be related more to weight loss itself than to any toxic effect of the medication on hair follicles.

Additionally, Zepbound (tirzepatide for weight management) shares the same active compound as Mounjaro and thus appears to carry a similar risk profile for hair thinning. Early post-marketing reports suggest similar rates of hair loss may apply, although published data is still limited.

Not everyone will experience hair thinning. The risk often appears to depend on how rapidly weight is lost, whether nutritional needs are met, and how an individual’s metabolism adjusts to GLP-1–induced changes.

At this time, there is no evidence linking GLP-1 medications to permanent hair loss, but temporary shedding is a well-documented phenomenon—especially among those losing weight quickly or restricting food intake.

What Triggers Hair Loss While on GLP-1 Medications?

If you’re noticing increased hair shedding while taking Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, it’s natural to assume the drug is responsible. However, the actual cause is often more complex.

The most likely culprit is telogen effluvium, a temporary form of diffuse hair shedding that occurs when a significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen (resting) phase. This typically occurs 2–3 months after a major physical or emotional stressor, including:

1. Rapid Weight Loss

Sudden or significant weight loss is a well-documented trigger of telogen effluvium. This is commonly seen after bariatric surgery, crash dieting, or treatment with potent weight loss medications. When the body undergoes a caloric deficit, it prioritizes vital functions over hair production, leading to increased shedding.

This explains why hair loss from semaglutide or tirzepatide often begins around the third or fourth month of treatment—not immediately upon starting the drug.

2. Calorie Restriction and Nutrient Deficiencies

GLP-1 medications suppress appetite, which can lead to lower protein intake and reduced absorption of micronutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, and B vitamins—all of which are critical for healthy hair growth. Nutritional deficiencies can independently cause or exacerbate telogen effluvium.

3. Emotional Stress and Hormonal Changes

Starting a new medication, adjusting to lifestyle changes, or coping with the psychological impact of chronic illness can all represent stressors. Additionally, metabolic shifts—such as changes in insulin sensitivity, thyroid hormones, or sex hormones—can influence the hair growth cycle.

4. Diabetes and Chronic Hyperglycemia

People with type 2 diabetes may already be predisposed to hair thinning. Chronic high blood sugar levels and associated microvascular complications can impair hair follicle health over time. In some cases, diabetes-related hair loss may continue even after beginning treatment.

While semaglutide and tirzepatide are not directly cytotoxic to hair follicles, the metabolic and nutritional changes associated with these medications can create an environment conducive to temporary hair shedding. The effect is typically reversible with time, improved nutrient intake, and stabilization of weight.

Is Hair Loss from Semaglutide Temporary?

In most cases, yes — hair loss associated with semaglutide use is temporary.

What many people experience is telogen effluvium, a condition that doesn’t damage the hair follicle itself but shifts more hairs than usual into the telogen (resting) phase. After shedding, those follicles typically return to the anagen (growth) phase, and hair regrowth can begin within 3–6 months, provided that the underlying cause (e.g., rapid weight loss, nutrient deficiency, or systemic stress) has been addressed.

So if you’re asking, “Will my hair grow back after Ozempic?” — the answer is almost always yes, assuming other medical issues are not at play.

That said, recovery is rarely immediate. Hair growth is a slow biological process. Even after the telogen phase ends, it can take several months before new growth becomes visibly noticeable.

The rate of regrowth may also vary from person to person, depending on factors such as:

• Age

• Nutritional status

• Hormone levels (e.g., thyroid, estrogen, or androgens)

• Genetics and underlying health conditions

If shedding persists for more than 6 months, or if you're noticing bald patches or thinning that worsens, it's important to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist. Other forms of hair loss (e.g., androgenetic alopecia, thyroid dysfunction, or autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata) may need to be ruled out.

How to Manage Hair Loss While Taking Ozempic or Mounjaro

If you’re experiencing excessive shedding while using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, it’s understandable to feel concerned. Fortunately, there are evidence-informed ways to support hair regrowth while continuing treatment.

1. Female-Specific Hair Loss Tips

Women are more likely to report emotional distress related to hair thinning, especially when influenced by hormonal changes. If you're experiencing shedding on semaglutide, consider these evidence-based steps:

• Ensure you're consuming adequate protein, with most adults requiring at least 60–80 grams daily for optimal hair growth.

• Test and monitor iron, ferritin, vitamin D, zinc, and thyroid levels, all of which can contribute to hair shedding if deficient or imbalanced.

• Avoid crash dieting or overly restrictive eating patterns, which can exacerbate nutrient depletion.

2. Can You Stop Mounjaro Hair Loss Overnight?

There’s no proven overnight solution to reverse telogen effluvium — and any claims otherwise should be viewed skeptically. However, you can reduce ongoing shedding and promote a healthy scalp environment with practical steps:

• Avoid tight hairstyles (e.g., ponytails or buns) that cause mechanical stress

• Limit heat styling and harsh chemical treatments

• Use gentle shampoos and wide-tooth combs

• Sleep on silk or satin pillowcases to reduce breakage

These strategies won’t speed up the hair growth cycle, but they can help protect the new hair that’s coming in.

3. Supplements to Support Regrowth

Certain nutritional supplements may support hair regrowth — but only if you have deficiencies. Supplementing without lab confirmation can be unnecessary or even harmful (e.g., excess iron can cause GI symptoms or toxicity).

Supplements commonly recommended by dermatologists include:

• Biotin (especially if deficient, though deficiency is rare)

• Zinc, iron, or vitamin D, depending on lab values

• Marine collagen peptides (limited data but popular in practice)

Popular commercial products include:

• Nutrafol® — formulated for various causes of female hair loss

• Viviscal® — contains marine extracts and biotin

• Thorne Biotin-8 — pharmaceutical-grade biotin supplement

Note: Scientific support for these supplements varies, and results are often modest. Still, they are generally well tolerated and widely used by clinicians as part of a supportive strategy.

4. Address Nutritional Gaps Caused by Appetite Suppression

GLP-1 medications reduce appetite — which supports weight loss, but can also reduce your overall intake of essential nutrients if not carefully managed.

To avoid deficiencies:

• Focus on nutrient-dense meals, not just calorie reduction

• Prioritize lean proteins, eggs, leafy greens, nuts/seeds, legumes, and whole grains

• Consider registered dietitian support if appetite remains low for prolonged periods

Hair loss from GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide is rarely permanent. Most often, it reflects your body adapting to metabolic changes — not a harmful drug side effect. Supporting your nutrition, hormonal balance, and stress levels can make a meaningful difference.

Comparing Hair Loss Risks: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound

Not all GLP-1–based medications carry identical risk profiles for hair loss. However, the differences are subtle, and the risk appears to depend more on the amount and speed of weight loss than on the specific drug used.

Let’s break it down:

• Ozempic® (semaglutide):
  Approved for type 2 diabetes. Hair loss is not listed as a documented side effect in FDA-approved clinical trials. However, some users report shedding in real-world settings. This is likely linked to secondary effects, such as weight loss, dietary restriction, or preexisting nutrient deficiencies — not the drug itself.

• Wegovy® (semaglutide):
  Contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic, but at a higher dose for chronic weight management. In the STEP trials, approximately 3% of participants reported hair loss. These cases were typically transient and believed to be associated with rapid weight loss, not a direct toxic effect of the medication.

• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide):
  A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes. In the SURMOUNT trials, up to 5% of users reported hair loss. This slightly higher rate may correlate with Mounjaro’s more potent weight loss outcomes compared to semaglutide.

• Zepbound™ (tirzepatide):
  Approved in 2023 for chronic weight management. Since it shares the same active molecule as Mounjaro, its hair loss risk is presumed similar. While long-term data is still emerging, no new safety concerns have been flagged.

So — does Mounjaro cause more hair loss than Wegovy?
Slightly, according to trial data. But again, this difference likely reflects the degree and rapidity of weight loss, not a unique drug-related mechanism targeting hair follicles.

When to See a Doctor About Hair Loss While on Semaglutide

Some temporary shedding can occur during significant metabolic or lifestyle shifts — including the use of GLP-1 medications. However, there are times when medical evaluation is warranted.

You should speak with a healthcare provider if:

• Hair loss continues beyond 6 months

• You notice patchy hair loss, scalp irritation, or persistent redness/itching

• Shedding is accompanied by fatigue, brittle nails, pale skin, or easy bruising — which could point to iron, B12, or thyroid-related deficiencies

Your provider may recommend:

• Lab testing (e.g., ferritin, thyroid panel, vitamin D, zinc)

• Reviewing your nutritional intake or adjusting supplementation

• Modifying your semaglutide or tirzepatide dosage, if applicable

Hair loss doesn’t have to derail your progress. With nutritional support, gentle hair care, and medical guidance, it’s often possible to manage semaglutide- or tirzepatide-related shedding without stopping treatment.

You don’t have to choose between your health goals and your hair — with the right support, you can prioritize both.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This website connects patients with licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate medical conditions and prescribe medications when appropriate. Some medications available through this service may be compounded drugs, which are customized formulations prepared by a pharmacy. The FDA does not conduct premarket review for compounded drugs to evaluate their safety, effectiveness, or quality. (See here: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/it-really-fda-approved). Individual results may vary, and these medications should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.