Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has garnered considerable attention for its effectiveness in significant weight loss. However, amidst the positive outcomes, a lingering concern remains: Does Mounjaro cause hair loss? Let’s delve into the clinical evidence to shed light on this question.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription injectable weight loss medication that has emerged as a promising treatment option for weight loss/ weight management and for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This prescription injectable medication offers a versatile approach, functioning in two primary capacities:
1. Management of Type 2 Diabetes:
- Monotherapy: Mounjaro can be prescribed as the sole diabetic medication for patients who are unable to tolerate metformin, a commonly used first-line treatment.
- Combination Therapy: For patients whose blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled with existing medications, Mounjaro can be effectively combined with other oral therapies and/or injectable insulin.
2. Weight Management in Adults:
In combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, Mounjaro is approved for weight loss and weight management in specific adult populations:
- Individuals with Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²): Mounjaro can be a valuable tool for weight management in patients classified as obese based on Body Mass Index (BMI).
- Overweight Adults (BMI 27-30 kg/m²) with Weight-Related Comorbidities: Mounjaro may be a suitable option for overweight adults (BMI 27-30 kg/m²) who are struggling with weight management and have additional weight-related health concerns. These concerns may include prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, sleep apnea, or a history of cardiovascular events.
Understanding the Link: Mounjaro and Hair Loss
While hair loss is not explicitly listed as a common side effect in the Mounjaro official product information leaflet, a growing body of evidence suggests a potential connection.
Clinical Trials and Studies:
- A meta-analysis study involving 8,847 participants who received Mounjaro over two years revealed that approximately 5.7% experienced alopecia (hair loss).
- Another study found a 4% hair loss rate in patients treated with tirzepatide compared to 0.7% in the placebo group.
- A 2022 clinical study indicated that 4.9% to 5.7% of participants taking Mounjaro doses of 5 mg to 15 mg reported hair loss, compared to 0.9% in the placebo group.
Possible Explanations
The exact mechanism behind Manjaro-induced hair loss remains unclear, but several theories exist:
- Rapid Weight Loss: Significant and rapid weight loss, regardless of the cause, can sometimes trigger a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium. This condition is temporary and hair typically grows back once the body adjusts to the weight loss.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Significant weight loss can sometimes lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and biotin, which are crucial for healthy hair growth.
- Stress: The body’s response to rapid weight loss and metabolic changes might contribute to hair loss.
What to Do if You Experience Hair Loss
If you notice hair loss while using Mounjaro, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate measures, such as:
- Nutritional Support: Addressing any potential nutrient deficiencies with dietary changes or supplements.
- Stress Management: Employing relaxation techniques and seeking support to manage stress effectively.
- Medication Adjustment: In some cases, your clinician might adjust your Mounjaro dosage or explore alternative treatments.
Important Note
- Individual Variation: It’s essential to remember that not everyone using Mounjaro will experience hair loss. The risk varies from person to person.
- Temporary Nature: In many cases, hair loss associated with Mounjaro is temporary and resolves once the body adjusts to the medication or weight loss stabilises.
Conclusion
While clinical evidence suggests a potential link between Mounjaro and hair loss, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship. If you’re concerned about hair loss or experiencing any unusual symptoms while taking Mounjaro, seek guidance from your healthcare professional. They can provide personalised advice and support to ensure your overall well-being.
References
- Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (2024) Four-dose Mounjaro “KwikPen” approved by MHRA for diabetes and weight management, Gov.uk. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/four-dose-mounjaro-kwikpen-approved-by-mhra-for-diabetes-and-weight-management
- Jastreboff, A. M. et al. (2022) “Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity,” The New England journal of medicine, 387(3), pp. 205–216. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2206038.
- Leigh Ann Anderson, P. (no date) 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/ (Accessed: August 12, 2024).
- MHRA (2023) PAR Mounjaro 2.5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and 15mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen, mhra.gov.uk. Available at: https://mhraproducts4853.blob.core.windows.net/docs/4b9ec71ea34f3590ab7036310cc99378c3d7f59d (Accessed: August 12, 2024).
- Moll, H. et al. (2024) “GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight reduction in people living with obesity but without diabetes: a living benefit–harm modelling study,” EClinicalMedicine, 73(102661), p. 102661. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102661.
