Can Ozempic cause hair loss?

In terms of trends, it is impossible to talk about weight loss without mentioning Ozempic. This is the brand name associated with semaglutide injection, which is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but is also often recommended as a weight loss treatment. In addition to helping you lose weight, it also helps manage blood sugar levels. Many diabetics use this drug, but even people without diabetes reach for this weight loss drug. Although it is effective, side effects such as abdominal pain and headaches may occur. Some even believe that Ozempic causes hair loss. Is this a potential side effect to be concerned about?

What are the side effects of Ozempic?

Semaglutide (Ozempic) is known for its effectiveness in treating type 2 diabetes. After the FDA approved it for weight loss purposes in 2021, many people started using it to fight obesity. However, Ozempic or Semaglutide has some side effects listed by the FDA.

• nausea
• abdominal pain
• syncope
• headache
• migraine
• dehydration
• acute pancreatitis
• gallstones

These side effects may be related to dosing errors that can occur if the drug is self-administered without consulting a doctor. Ozempick says to start with a dose of 0.25 mg per week. Continue this for 4 weeks.

Ozempic causes hair loss: true or false?

This weight loss supplement can cause side effects, but whether Ozempic causes hair loss is debatable. The current analysis was conducted by several studies, including a 2021 study published in The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Researchers found that semaglutide (Ozempic) did not significantly increase the risk of hair loss.

In another study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, hair loss was not officially listed as a side effect of semaglutide (Ozempic) administered at doses of 0.25 to 2 mg weekly. However, the researchers found that when given 2.4 mg weekly, 3% of participants reported hair loss, compared to just 1% when taking a placebo. Because of this, some may think that Ozempic is the cause of hair loss. “However, there is no direct link between weight loss drugs and hair loss,” says dermatologist Dr. Rupika Singh.

How does Ozempic cause hair loss?

Here are some indirect causes of hair loss related to this weight loss drug.

1. Rapid weight loss

Ozempic is a powerful appetite suppressant, so it lowers calorie consumption and aids in weight loss. “A sudden change in weight causes a temporary condition called telogen effluvium,” experts say. This scalp disease, characterized by excessive hair loss, is one of the most common causes of alopecia, according to a study published in the journal Cureus in 2020. In this case, the hair follicle transitions from the anagen (or anagen) phase to the telogen (or resting) phase. ).

2. Lack of food

Reducing the calorific value of food can affect the amount of nutrients your body takes in. “Your body may not be getting the iron, zinc, biotin, essential fats, and proteins it needs for healthy hair growth,” says Dr. Singh.

3. Hormonal changes

A sudden change in weight can disrupt your hormonal balance and cause hair loss. Hormones that can be affected by weight changes include cortisol, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones such as estrogen.

4. Stress

Stress may also be playing a role here. You might think that Ozempic causes hair loss because of its association with weight loss and stress. Some people lose their appetite due to stress.

Ozempic causes hair loss: What causes it?

• If you lose weight rapidly, you are more likely to develop telogen effluvium.
• Hair loss is more likely to occur if you are already deficient in nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D.
• Having a chronic disease such as diabetes can accelerate hair loss in people who choose Ozempic. A 2019 study published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology found that type 2 diabetes is associated with a 68% increased risk of severe hair loss, particularly hair loss in the mid-scalp area.
• If you have a family history of male pattern baldness, your risk of hair loss increases.
• During certain stages of a woman’s life cycle, such as menopause and perimenopause, hormonal changes can cause more hair loss.

Ozempic causes hair loss: know how to treat it

If you believe that Ozempic is the cause of your hair loss and have noticed the signs, choose the following treatment options:

1. Nutritional supplements

To strengthen your hair, consume milk, dairy products, and eggs, which are sources of protein. “Also, eat foods rich in zinc, iron, and biotin, or take a vitamin D supplement to promote hair growth,” say experts. However, consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

2. Topical application

If you think Ozempic is causing your hair loss and are concerned, try using minoxidil, which promotes hair growth. “It can help people with telogen effluvium, but it’s consistent with application. Use it for at least three to six months to see positive changes.”

3. Medical procedures

There are many treatments that can promote hair growth. “The list includes platelet-rich plasma therapy and low-level laser therapy,” the expert says. In platelet-rich plasma therapy, your own blood is used to grow hair. When it comes to low-level laser treatments, low-power monochromatic light is used to strengthen the hair.

4. Hair oil and serum

Massage your scalp regularly to improve blood circulation and encourage hair growth. “Use essential oils such as argan oil or rosemary oil for hair growth during scalp massage,” suggests an expert. You can also use serums containing niacinamide or peptides for stronger hair shafts.

5. Natural ingredients

If you believe in the power of home remedies, we recommend ashwagandha and ginseng. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Science found that ginseng has therapeutic effects on hair growth. Another study published in the Journal of Ayurvedic and Integrative Medicine in 2023 reported that topical ashwagandha (serum) helped improve hair growth.

6. Frequent health monitoring

Instead of wondering if Ozempic is the cause of your hair loss, get a medical checkup and find out the reason behind it. Your doctor will tell you if stress, nutritional deficiencies, or other factors are causing your hair loss. Therefore, your doctor will suggest treatment options.

If you are using a weight loss drug like Ozempic and are experiencing hair loss, you may think the two are related. However, there is no truth to the idea that Ozempic causes hair loss. To avoid hair loss while losing weight, check with your doctor, use the right dosage, eat a healthy diet, and reduce stress.