Wegovy and Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection
Increased Risk of Hair Loss Linked to Wegovy
A recent study has highlighted a potential side effect of Wegovy, a medication used for weight management. Individuals using this medication may face a heightened risk of hair loss compared to those taking Contrave, another weight loss drug.
Key Findings of the Study
Research findings revealed that patients prescribed semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) had a 50% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with a hair loss condition than patients taking Contrave (bupropion-naltrexone). Notably, the risk was particularly pronounced among women, who were diagnosed with hair loss at twice the rate of men.
“Hair loss significantly affects quality of life,” stated Dr. Mohit Sodhi, a resident emergency physician at the University of British Columbia and lead author of the study. “It is essential for patients to be aware of these potential side effects before choosing to start the medication.”
Clinical Trial Insights
During clinical trials for Wegovy, 3.3% of participants reported experiencing hair loss, compared to just 1.4% among those who received a placebo. The study suggested that a greater weight loss was associated with an increased risk of hair loss.
Last year, the FDA initiated an investigation into reported cases of hair loss and other serious side effects linked to GLP-1 drugs, yet no updates specifically concerning hair loss have emerged.
Study Population and Methodology
The analysis included data from approximately 1,900 individuals taking semaglutide and around 1,350 individuals on Contrave. Researchers factored in pre-existing conditions associated with hair loss, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), depression, steroid use, and thyroid disorders.
The study identified 22 hair loss cases among women and only one among men, reflecting the significantly larger female representation in the data.
Dr. Sodhi expressed the need for further research, stating, “To understand this fully, we require replication studies with larger datasets and potentially basic science studies to explore GLP-1 agonist-induced hair loss.”
Possible Mechanisms Behind Hair Loss
Several theories have emerged regarding how GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide may contribute to hair loss. Rapid weight loss has been linked to a condition known as telogen effluvium, where stress on the body induces hair follicles to shift from the growth to the resting phase, leading to hair loss several months later.
Because semaglutide typically promotes faster weight loss than Contrave, it may instigate more physiological stress, potentially disrupting the normal hair growth cycle.
Additionally, appetite suppression and gastrointestinal side effects, such as vomiting, can lead to inadequate nutrient absorption, which may adversely affect hair health. Essential nutrients like proteins, iron, zinc, certain B vitamins, and selenium are vital for maintaining hair vitality.
Sex Differences in Hair Loss Risk
Data from other GLP-1 drugs also indicate a trend where women experience hair loss at higher rates than men. For instance, in the clinical trial for Zepbound, 7.1% of women reported hair loss, compared to only 0.5% of men.
The reasons for this disparity remain unclear. One hypothesis suggests that rapid weight loss may trigger hormonal fluctuations in women, such as elevated testosterone levels, which are associated with androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss.
Another possible explanation involves nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron, which may be more prevalent among women due to menstrual cycles.
Considerations for GLP-1 Drug Use
Dr. Rossi emphasizes that GLP-1 medications should not merely be viewed as tools for achieving target weight. Rather, they should assist in improving overall health outcomes, such as cardiovascular function and insulin sensitivity. Monitoring patients’ micronutrient levels could help mitigate the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Dr. Sodhi notes that for some individuals, the benefits of GLP-1 medications may outweigh the risks associated with hair loss, suggesting, “The assessment of risks versus benefits will differ for someone who is severely obese compared to someone looking to lose a few pounds for an event.”