From the Research
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has been associated with hair loss (alopecia) in some patients, though it is not listed as a common side effect in the medication's official labeling, and the most recent evidence suggests that this hair loss is likely related to the rapid weight loss that occurs with Mounjaro treatment rather than a direct effect of the medication itself 1.
Causes of Hair Loss
- The rapid weight loss associated with Mounjaro treatment can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase and subsequently shed.
- Metabolic changes and potential nutritional shifts that occur during treatment might also contribute to hair thinning.
Management of Hair Loss
- Ensure adequate protein intake (at least 0.8-1g per kg of body weight daily) to support hair growth.
- Take a multivitamin that includes biotin, zinc, and iron to help maintain healthy hair.
- Stay well-hydrated to promote overall health and reduce the risk of hair loss.
Outcome and Prognosis
- Most cases of medication-associated hair loss improve within 3-6 months as the body adjusts to the medication or when weight stabilizes 2.
- If hair loss is severe or distressing, consult your healthcare provider, who might recommend adjusting your dose, supplementing specific nutrients, or referring you to a dermatologist for specialized treatments to support hair regrowth.
Key Considerations
- The most recent study on tirzepatide, published in 2025, found that individuals achieved significant weight reduction at 6 months, consistent with clinical trials, and that multimorbidity is common among tirzepatide initiators 1.
- While tirzepatide dose escalation was slower than in clinical trials, the real-world evidence suggests that individuals can achieve weight reduction consistent with clinical trials 1.