Wegovy, a medication gaining popularity for its weight loss benefits, has been raising questions about potential side effects, particularly hair loss. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the science behind Wegovy, its potential impact on hair health, and strategies to manage any related concerns.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy, a brand name for semaglutide, is a prescription injection used for weight loss and weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related condition. It works by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates appetite and slows down digestion.
How does Wegovy work?
Wegovy primarily works by:
- Suppressing Appetite: It reduces hunger and cravings, making it easier to control calorie intake.
- Slowing Digestion: It slows down the emptying of the stomach, leading to a feeling of fullness for longer periods.
- Regulating Blood Sugar: It can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can impact weight management.
What is the science behind Wegovy and weight loss?
Wegovy works by targeting specific receptors in the brain that regulate appetite and satiety. By mimicking the action of a natural hormone called GLP-1, Wegovy helps reduce hunger, slow down digestion, and control blood sugar levels. This combination of effects can lead to significant weight loss.
Does Wegovy Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, hair loss can be a side effect of Wegovy. While not a direct effect of the medication, it is often linked to the rapid weight loss that Wegovy can induce.
When people lose weight quickly, they may experience nutrient deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc, and biotin, which are crucial for hair health. Additionally, rapid weight loss can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, which can also impact hair growth cycles.
Clinical trials have shown that approximately 3% of individuals taking Wegovy reported hair loss, compared to 1% of those taking a placebo. It’s important to note that hair loss associated with Wegovy is often temporary and mild, and it typically resolves once the body adjusts to the new weight and nutrient levels stabilize.
Why Does Rapid Weight Loss Lead to Hair Loss?
Rapid weight loss can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium. This condition causes a significant increase in hair shedding, often occurring a few months after a major physical or emotional stressor, such as illness, childbirth, surgery, or significant weight loss.
When the body experiences such stress, it shifts a larger number of hair follicles into the resting phase (telogen phase). As a result, more hair enters the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss.
Will hair loss during weight loss treatment be permanent?
In most cases, hair loss associated with rapid weight loss is temporary. Once the body adjusts to the new weight and nutrient levels stabilize, hair growth should return to normal. However, in some cases, severe hair loss may require medical intervention.
How to manage hair loss concerns?
If you’re experiencing hair loss while taking Wegovy, here are some tips to manage the issue:
- Consult Your Healthcare Professional: Discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to explore potential treatment options.
- Maintain a Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re consuming a diet rich in protein, iron, zinc, biotin, and other essential nutrients to support hair health.
- Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh hair treatments, such as excessive heat styling and chemical processes, which can damage hair.
- Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, to promote overall well-being.
- Consider Supplements: Your clinician may recommend specific supplements, such as iron, zinc, or biotin, if you have deficiencies.
What are the clinical treatment options for hair loss?
Several clinical treatments are available for hair loss, including:
- Minoxidil: A topical solution that stimulates hair growth.
- Finasteride: An oral medication that blocks the production of DHT, a hormone that contributes to hair loss.
- Hair Transplant: A surgical procedure that involves transplanting hair follicles from a donor area to a balding area.
- Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): A non-invasive treatment that uses low-level lasers to stimulate hair growth.
The Key Takeaway
While Wegovy can be an effective medication for weight loss and weight management, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, including hair loss. By following a balanced diet, practicing gentle hair care, and consulting with your doctor, you can manage hair loss concerns and achieve your weight loss goals.
References
Anderson, L.A. (2024) Do Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro & Zepbound cause hair loss?, Drugs.com. Available at: https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/ozempic-wegovy-mounjaro-cause-hair-loss-3575019/
Hughes, E.C., Syed, H.A. and Saleh, D. (2024) “Telogen effluvium,” in StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
Novo Nordisk Inc (2022) Wegovy® (semaglutide) injection Prescribing Information, Novo-pi.com. Available at: https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf
Singh, G., Krauthamer, M. and Bjalme-Evans, M. (2022) “Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management,” Journal of investigative medicine: the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research, 70(1), pp. 5–13. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/jim-2021-001952.
Wegovy made available in the UK for weight loss in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
