From the Guidelines
Wegovy (semaglutide) can cause hair loss in some people, although it is not explicitly listed as a common side effect in the provided evidence. The exact mechanism of hair loss associated with Wegovy is not fully understood, but it may be related to the rapid weight loss that the medication induces, rather than a direct effect of the medication itself 1. When the body experiences significant weight loss, it can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase and shed. This type of hair loss is typically temporary, and hair growth usually resumes once the body adjusts to the weight loss or after discontinuing the medication.
Some key points to consider:
- Hair loss is not listed as a common side effect of Wegovy in the provided evidence, but it may still occur in some individuals 1.
- The mechanism of hair loss associated with Wegovy is not fully understood, but it may be related to rapid weight loss rather than a direct effect of the medication itself.
- Telogen effluvium, a condition triggered by significant weight loss, can cause hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting phase and shed.
- Hair growth usually resumes once the body adjusts to the weight loss or after discontinuing the medication.
If you experience hair loss while taking Wegovy, it's essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may recommend nutritional supplements, ensuring adequate protein intake, or other strategies to minimize hair loss while continuing the medication. In most cases, the benefits of Wegovy for weight management may outweigh this temporary side effect.
From the Research
WeGovy and Hair Loss
- There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies do not mention WeGovy.
- The studies focus on low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and its effects on hair regrowth, as well as other treatments for androgenic alopecia, such as minoxidil and finasteride 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- None of the studies mention WeGovy as a potential cause of hair loss or discuss its relationship with hair regrowth.
- To determine if WeGovy can cause hair loss, further research would be needed, specifically studies that investigate the effects of WeGovy on hair growth and loss.