Do weight loss injections cause Hair Loss?
Views: 58
Losing weight has many benefits, especially for your health. It significantly improves obesity-related health problems like heart health, decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes, improves mental health, etc. A variety of weight loss solutions are available in this modern era, and weight loss injections are one of them, suitable for people who want to avoid surgical weight loss treatment. Any weight loss treatment that helps lose weight rapidly might cause unexpected side effects, such as hair loss.
Losing a minimum weight might not cause hair loss, but it is common in most people who have lost a significant amount of body weight.
In this blog, Dr. Venugopal Pareek provided his insights on different causes of hair loss that happen during weight loss journeys. In particular, while taking weight loss injections—if there is a connection.
Causes of hair loss due to weight loss
Telogen effluvium, the scientific term for hair loss, is a temporary and reversible condition caused by abrupt and rapid weight loss. This type of hair loss happens (severe illness, childbirth, etc.) when your body prioritizes other important bodily functions over hair growth. In the case of weight loss, most of its energy is redirected to other bodily functions due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which is why the hair follicles enter a resting phase, causing noticeable hair loss.
- Nutrient deficiencies and calorie restriction
Deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals (vitamin D or iron) results in telogen effluvium. During weight loss, your body might not get sufficient nutrition, which leads to hair loss; however, if you are monitored by an expert during your weight loss journey, they recommend changes in your diet or suggest supplements to ensure you’re getting the necessary nutrition. This might prevent hair loss.
Protein deficiency in the diet is one of the causes of hair loss. Inadequate protein consumption while you are trying to lose weight through medication is one of the causes of hair loss.
So, it is important to get some lean protein in your diet during your weight loss journey, with or without weight loss injections. Proper protein consumption not only prevents hair loss but also maintains energy levels and muscle mass. Skinless meat and white fish are good sources of lean protein. Weight loss medication highly reduces your appetite, which is why you need to focus on eating a balanced and nutritious diet.
Do weight loss injections cause hair loss?
As mentioned above, rapid weight loss can cause temporary hair loss, and weight loss injections like Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Ozempic can result in rapid weight loss. So yes, taking weight loss medication might cause hair loss as an indirect side effect, but it is reversible.
In some studies related to Wegovy, it is reported that around 3% of adults have experienced hair loss using this medication. And 4% of children aged 12 years and above who are using Wegovy reported hair loss.
Hair loss is not included as a potential side effect for Ozempic (semaglutide), but some people using this medicine have reported hair loss.
Hair loss is not included as an adverse effect for Mounjaro (tirzepatide), but a clinical study conducted in 2022 documented that hair loss is observed in 4.9% to 5.7% of people, especially when taking doses ranging from 5 mg to 15 mg.
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is also a weight loss injection, with hair loss pointed out as a common side effect.
According to certain clinical studies, around 4% to 5% of Zepbound users for weight loss experienced hair loss. It is more frequent in women (7.1%) compared to men (0.5%).
Is hair loss during weight loss treatment permanent?
Hair loss that occurs with weight loss injection treatment is not likely to be permanent. It is a temporary side effect and most likely gets better over a few months. However, you can prevent hair fall if you follow a balanced diet, use gentle hair care techniques, and manage stress.
If hair loss is beyond control, consult an expert. If you are obese and looking for an experienced weight loss doctor in Hyderabad, Dr. Venugopal Pareek can be your best option. He has nearly two decades of experience and is proficient in both surgical and non-surgical weight loss methods. You are just a step away from your desired future; call +91 91777 77715 to book your appointment with the doctor.
