10/01/2026
GLP-1 medications & hair shedding: what you need to know
We’re seeing more questions about GLP-1 / GLP-1-GIP medications and hair changes.
This includes Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Rybelsus® (semaglutide), Mounjaro® / Zepbound® (tirzepatide), Saxenda® / Victoza® (liraglutide), plus others such as Trulicity®, Byetta®, Bydureon® and Lyxumia®.
Here’s the key point:
👉 In most cases, this is hair shedding — not permanent hair loss.
When shedding occurs, it most commonly fits telogen effluvium — a temporary, reactive shedding pattern triggered by physiological change, not by the medication directly damaging hair follicles.
GLP-1 medications can lead to reduced appetite and weight loss. For some people, the body interprets rapid weight change, reduced energy intake, or nutritional imbalance as a stressor — and hair growth is temporarily deprioritised.
Common triggers we see:
• Rapid or significant weight loss
• Low protein intake
• Low iron/ferritin, vitamin D, zinc, B12 or folate
• GI side effects reducing intake or absorption
• Shedding unmasking an underlying hair condition
Shedding usually starts weeks to months after the trigger, not immediately — and once the drivers are corrected, regrowth is expected.
If you’re experiencing shedding:
✔️ Don’t panic
✔️ Don’t stop medication without your prescriber
✔️ Focus on nutrition, protein and addressing deficiencies
✔️ Seek assessment if shedding is prolonged or pattern changes appear
Understanding the true trigger is what protects long-term hair health.
