Hair Loss & GLP-1s
Hair Loss on GLP-1s: The Facts and Why Wegovy May Have the Edge
At SheMed, we know hair loss is a concern many women raise when starting GLP-1 treatments such as Mounjaro or Wegovy. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Will these medications make my hair fall out?”
The reassuring news is that while both can be linked to temporary shedding, research shows Wegovy is associated with slightly fewer reports of hair loss than Mounjaro. For anyone worried about hair health, that means switching to Wegovy could carry a small but meaningful advantage.
What the studies show
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy have been linked to reports of temporary hair thinning. The rates are relatively low and usually connected more to the speed of weight loss than the medication itself.
- Mounjaro (SURMOUNT-1 trial): Hair loss reported in about 5 out of 100 people
- Wegovy (STEP trials): Hair loss reported in about 3 out of 100 people
This suggests hair loss is seen a little more often with Mounjaro than with Wegovy, but in both cases it remains uncommon.
Why does it happen?
The medicine itself is not directly causing hair loss. Instead, rapid weight loss can shock the body. When changes happen quickly, the body shifts energy to its most important functions, such as keeping the heart and brain healthy, and hair growth slows down for a while.
Doctors call this telogen effluvium, which simply means temporary shedding.
Other contributing factors can include:
- Nutrient gaps (protein, iron, vitamin D, biotin)
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
What this means for you
The important thing to know is that this kind of hair loss is temporary. It usually settles within 3–6 months as your body adapts.
You can help protect your hair by:
- Eating a balanced, protein-rich diet
- Staying hydrated
- Aiming for steady, gradual weight loss rather than rapid changes
At SheMed, we always encourage a slow and steady approach to weight loss. This protects not only your hair, but also your skin, muscles, and long-term health.
And of course, our clinical team is always here to support and reassure you if you notice any changes.
The content on the SheMed blog is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. While SheMed provides professional weight loss services and strives to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date, we make no representations or guarantees as to its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. This content should not be taken as personal medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always speak with your doctor or licensed medical professional about your individual health or medical needs before starting any new treatment or programme. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this site. SheMed is not responsible for any actions you may take based on the information provided in this blog.
