Can Semaglutide Cause Hair Loss?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Hair loss can be concerning, especially when starting a new medication. With semaglutide, as with any medication, it’s important to understand the potential side effects. In this article, we’ll delve into the question of whether semaglutide can cause hair loss.
Does Semaglutide Cause Hair Loss?
Research indicates that less than five percent of semaglutide users experience hair loss. However, individual responses to the medication can vary, and other factors such as nutritional deficiencies, stress, and underlying health conditions can cause hair loss.
Is Semaglutide Hair Loss an FDA Investigation?
In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it’s evaluating reports of side effects like hair loss and suicidal ideation in people using weight loss drugs, including semaglutide. However, this announcement doesn’t mean the FDA has identified a causal relationship between semaglutide use and hair loss.
What Are Other Side Effects of Semaglutide?
Some of the other side effects of semaglutide include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Decreased appetite
What Should You Do if You Experience Hair Loss from Semaglutide?
If you experience hair loss as a side effect of taking semaglutide, it is important to first consult your doctor. They can assess your symptoms, verify if the medication is the cause, and discuss alternative medications.
How Can You Prevent Hair Loss on Semaglutide?
To prevent hair loss on semaglutide, employ the following strategies:
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Ensure you are getting enough essential nutrients such as vitamin A, C, D, E, zinc, and iron, as deficiencies in these can contribute to hair loss.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain scalp health and supports hair growth.
- Use Gentle Hair Care Products: Opt for shampoos and conditioners that are free of harsh chemicals and sulfates, which can damage hair follicles.
- Avoid Excessive Heat Styling: Limit your use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons, as high heat can weaken hair.
- Manage Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, and/or deep breathing exercises, as stress can exacerbate hair loss.
- Consult Your Doctor: If you notice significant hair loss, speak with your healthcare provider to ensure it is not a side effect of semaglutide or a result of an underlying health condition.
- Take Supplements: Consider taking hair growth supplements containing biotin, keratin, and/or collagen.
Conclusion
While current evidence suggests hair loss is not a common side effect of semaglutide, individual experiences can vary. It’s crucial to monitor any changes in your hair’s health and consult a doctor if you notice unusual hair thinning or loss. By maintaining a healthy diet, employing gentle hair care practices, managing stress, and staying in close communication with your doctor, you can help support your hair’s health while using semaglutide.
If you’re looking to use semaglutide to lose weight, the Sanctuary Wellness Institute can help. Participants in our online medical weight loss program get their semaglutide prescriptions delivered for self-administration and attend virtual appointments with licensed physicians who provide guidance and support. Book an evaluation today to get started.
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How we reviewed this article:
- Drugs.com (2024). Do Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro & Zepbound cause hair loss?
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/ozempic-wegovy-mounjaro-cause-hair-loss-3575019/ - Katherine Dillinger (2024). FDA looking into reports of hair loss, suicidal thoughts in people using popular drugs for diabetes and weight loss
https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/03/health/glp1-agonist-side-effects-fda/index.html - Zuri C. Hawkins-Jarrett (2023). 19 Side Effects of Semaglutide for Type 2 Diabetes and Weight Loss
https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/semaglutide-side-effects - Tracy Norfleet (2023). Can Ozempic Cause Hair Loss?
https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/does-ozempic-cause-hair-loss
Current Version
May 31, 2024
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
