A recent study from the University of British Columbia (UBC) sheds light on a potential side effect of semaglutide, the active ingredient in the weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy: hair loss. According to the research, individuals taking semaglutide for weight loss experienced more hair loss compared to those on other weight loss medications, such as bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave), which is not a GLP-1 medication like semaglutide.
The study, published on the preprint server MedRxiv, analyzed the health data of 1,926 people using semaglutide and 1,348 people using bupropion-naltrexone. The findings indicated a higher incidence of hair loss in those taking semaglutide, with 26.5 out of 1,000 users diagnosed with hair loss, compared to 11.8 out of 1,000 for those on bupropion-naltrexone. Women, in particular, appeared to be at a higher risk.
Possible Causes of Hair Loss
Experts believe that the weight loss induced by semaglutide, rather than the medication itself, is likely the primary cause of hair loss. Semaglutide is known to promote rapid weight loss, which can create physiological stress on the body, potentially disrupting the natural hair cycle. This type of hair loss, called telogen effluvium, occurs when hair enters the shedding phase prematurely. While this condition is typically temporary, it can be distressing for users.
Dr. Saami Khalifian, a dermatologist, explained that rapid weight loss can lead to stress-induced hair loss. He compared it to other stress-related conditions, like pregnancy or illness, which can also trigger shedding.
Nutrition’s Role in Hair Health
Dr. Brynna Connor, a family medicine physician, noted that some patients may experience hair loss due to inadequate nutrition while on GLP-1 medications. These drugs reduce appetite, which can lead to a lower intake of essential nutrients, including protein and vitamins that support healthy hair growth.
To combat hair loss, experts recommend strategies to ensure proper nutrition while taking GLP-1 medications:
Front-load meals with protein: Eating protein-rich foods first can help ensure you get enough nutrients before feeling too full.
Consider supplementation: Biotin (vitamin B7) is commonly recommended to support hair, skin, and nail health.
Use topical treatments: Minoxidil or other hair growth stimulants may help in some cases.
Before starting any GLP-1 medication, Dr. Connor suggests getting lab tests to rule out underlying conditions, like anemia or thyroid issues, which could also contribute to hair loss.
The Risk-Benefit Balance
While hair loss is a concern, experts caution that the overall benefits of GLP-1 medications may outweigh the risks, particularly for individuals who are obese or have poorly controlled diabetes. However, for those seeking weight loss for cosmetic reasons, such as losing a few pounds for an event, the potential for hair loss may be a more significant deterrent.
The research is still in its early stages, and further studies are needed to better understand the long-term effects of semaglutide on hair health. Users should consult their healthcare providers to discuss any concerns and weigh the risks and benefits based on their individual health needs.
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