Ozempic, a medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes, has gained attention not only for its ability to help with blood sugar control and weight loss but also for some unexpected side effects. While most side effects of Ozempic are related to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort, a growing number of people have raised concerns about hair thinning. So, does Ozempic cause hair loss? Here’s what experts have to say.
Weight Loss, Stress, and Telogen Effluvium
According to Deena Adimoolam, M.D., an endocrinologist at Summit Health, hair loss may be linked to the weight loss process itself. “Weight loss is considered a stress on the body, especially extreme weight loss. That stress can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, which leads to decreased hair growth and subsequent hair shedding,” explains Dr. Adimoolam.
Telogen effluvium is a type of temporary hair loss triggered by physical or emotional stress, including rapid weight loss. In some cases, the lack of proper nutrition, which can occur when people on Ozempic eat less due to reduced appetite, can also contribute to hair thinning. Nutrient deficiencies—such as those in biotin, iron, protein, and zinc—can impact hair health and potentially lead to hair loss.
Does Ozempic Directly Cause Hair Loss?
While Ozempic itself is not thought to directly cause hair loss, Jamie Alan, Ph.D., an associate professor of pharmacology at Michigan State University, explains that hair loss is likely a result of factors that accompany weight loss. “GLP-1s like Ozempic do not necessarily cause hair loss. Instead, the hair thinning is often a consequence of inadequate nutrient intake during the weight loss process,” says Dr. Alan.
Dermatologist Janiene Luke, M.D., has also observed a rise in hair loss among patients taking Ozempic. “While research is still in its early stages, the increase in hair loss could be linked to rapid weight loss, which may disrupt the normal hair growth cycle or lead to hormonal fluctuations that trigger hair thinning,” she says.
How Common Is Hair Loss on Ozempic?
Hair loss among Ozempic users is relatively common, particularly in those who experience rapid weight loss. “It’s something I educate all my patients about before starting treatment so there are no surprises,” notes Dr. Adimoolam. Dr. Luke has observed similar trends, adding that although the studies on Ozempic and hair loss are inconclusive, it is important for patients to be aware of the potential for hair thinning.
The Link Between Weight Loss and Hair Loss
Weight loss, particularly when it occurs quickly, has long been associated with hair loss. “Sudden weight loss, no matter the cause, can lead to a loss of vital nutrients and vitamins,” explains Emily Aboujaoude, Pharm.D., clinical assistant professor at the Rutgers University Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy. Hair loss can occur as a result of nutrient deficiencies in iron, zinc, protein, selenium, and other essential fatty acids. These deficiencies may not show immediate effects but could cause hair thinning months later.
What Is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium is a common cause of temporary hair loss, often triggered by physical or emotional stress. Dr. Luke explains that the condition occurs when hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen) of the hair growth cycle. Normally, 85-90% of hair is in the growth phase (anagen), while only 10-15% is in telogen. In cases of telogen effluvium, a larger proportion of hair enters telogen, resulting in noticeable hair shedding.
Fortunately, telogen effluvium is usually temporary, and hair will often regrow once the underlying cause is addressed.
How to Prevent Hair Loss While Taking Ozempic
Although you can’t entirely control how your body reacts to medications, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the risk of hair loss:
Avoid Rapid Weight Loss: Dr. Luke advises against losing too much weight too quickly, as this can stress the body and trigger hair loss. A gradual, steady weight loss is less likely to cause this issue.
Ensure Proper Nutrition: Maintaining a well-rounded, balanced diet with adequate levels of protein, biotin, iron, and other essential nutrients is critical to supporting hair growth. “Restrictive diets that eliminate entire food groups can increase the risk of deficiencies, so it’s important to incorporate a variety of nutrients,” says Dr. Aboujaoude.
Supplement Where Needed: For those on restrictive diets, such as vegetarians or vegans, supplementation with nutrients like iron and zinc may help prevent nutrient deficiencies that could contribute to hair loss.
Take Ozempic as Directed: Following the prescribed dosage and not taking the medication if you do not meet the criteria is key. Overuse or misuse of Ozempic can increase the likelihood of side effects, including hair thinning.
Will Hair Grow Back After Stopping Ozempic?
If you experience hair loss due to Ozempic, will your hair grow back? The good news is that in most cases, hair will regrow once the underlying cause is addressed. “It can take several months, but typically the body will reset itself and the hair will begin to grow back normally,” Dr. Luke says. On average, it may take anywhere from six to 12 months for full recovery.
Dr. Adimoolam adds, “If the hair loss is related to telogen effluvium, it may take about three to six months for hair to grow back, but this can vary from person to person.”
Official Ozempic Side Effects
Hair loss is not listed as an official side effect of Ozempic. According to the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, the primary side effects of Ozempic include:
Nausea
Stomach pain
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Conclusion
While Ozempic may not directly cause hair loss, the medication’s weight loss effects can trigger conditions like telogen effluvium, which leads to temporary hair shedding. The good news is that with the right precautions—such as maintaining proper nutrition and avoiding rapid weight loss—many people can minimize the risk of hair loss. If you’re concerned about hair thinning while taking Ozempic, it’s important to discuss your concerns with your doctor to ensure you are managing the medication safely and effectively.
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