If you are using or considering Mounjaro (tilzepatide) for weight loss or type 2 diabetes, you may have heard concerns about hair loss as a side effect. Hair loss is not listed as a known side effect of Mounjaro, but some users report it during treatment.
So does Murjaro really cause hair loss or is it due to other factors? Learn the truth behind this concern, why it happens, and how effectively you can manage it in this article.
Does Mounjaro cause hair loss? truth
No, there is no scientific evidence that Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) directly causes hair loss (alopecia). Mounjaro’s FDA approved prescribing information does not list hair loss as a side effect. but,
One clinical review We found that hair loss occurs in some individuals who used 5-10 mg of Mounjaro compared to those who were on a placebo. This suggests that around 10% of users reported hair loss.
Why does hair loss occur?
Experts believe that the real cause of hair loss while taking Mounjaro is terogenic drainage. Rapid weight loss.
How it works:
- Usually, 90% of hair is in the growth stage (Anagen), and 10% is in the rest stage (Telogen).
- Rapid weight loss acts as a stressor, pushing more hair into the telogen phase earlier.
- This will increase your dropouts within 2-3 months of starting Mounjaro.
Good news? When your weight is stable, your hair will usually grow.
When does hair removal start and how long does it last?
Hair loss with Mounjaro treatment can usually begin about 2-3 months after you start experiencing weight loss and last for several more months. However, once weight loss is stable and the body adapts to this medication, hair loss usually begins to resolve, but times vary.
If you have experienced sustained hair loss for more than a year, patchy ald spots, or scalp irritation, look for a dermatologist for a proper assessment. Doctors can help address the exact cause of hair loss as there are other factors that contribute to hair loss and may provide treatment accordingly.
Other possible causes of hair removal in Mounjaro
Several factors may contribute to hair loss during Munjaro treatment. They include:
1. Nutritional deficiency
Weight loss can lead to deficiencies in the key nutrients needed for hair growth, such as:
- Iron – Essential for oxygen delivery to hair follicles.
- Zinc – Supports hair tissue growth and repair.
- Protein – Hair is made with keratin, protein, and inadequate intake and may be inadequate.
2. Diabetes-related issues
Uncontrolled blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and reduce oxygen and nutrient supply to the hair follicles.
3. Hormonal changes
Extreme weight loss destroys hormone levels and affects the hair growth cycle. imbalance:
…Everything can contribute to the dropout.
4. Stress and lifestyle changes:
Emotional stress from serious lifestyle changes, dietary restrictions, or weight loss efforts can also cause hair loss.
Other medications that can cause hair loss
If you are taking Mounjaro with other medications, they can also contribute to hair loss.
Medication type | example |
---|---|
Weight loss drugs | Wegovy, ozempic |
Oral contraceptives | Contraceptives |
Heart medicine | Beta blocker, statin |
Antibiotics and antifungal properties | Fluconazole, erythromycin |
Antidepressants | SSRIS, lithium |
nsaids | Aspirin, ibuprofen |
Excessive Vitamin A | Retinoid, Accutane |
Tips to prevent hair loss during Mounjaro treatment
Consider these tips to prevent hair loss and support hair health in Mounjaro.
1. Consumes nutritious foods
Support your hair health:
- Protein – Eggs, Lean Meat, Beans
- Iron and Zinc – Spinach, Nuts, Shellfish
- Biotin and Vitamin D – Avocado, Fat Fish
2. Use hair-friendly supplements
If you are struggling with nutritional intake, consider supplements such as collagen, vitamin D, iron, and biotin. They help to strengthen the hair follicles. Collagen promotes hair elasticity and structure, while biotin helps improve keratin production. However, consult your doctor before consuming supplements.
3. Maintain hydration
Hydration keeps your hair follicles strong and healthy scalp. So, drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This helps improve circulation, which increases the supply of nutrients to the hair follicles and promotes regrowth.
4. Manage stress
Because stress plays a major role in hair removal, you will be engaged in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing techniques. These activities promote hair growth cycles and minimize hair loss.
5. Avoid smoking
According to the studysmoking can contribute to hair removal by damaging the hair follicles. It constricts and compresses blood vessels, preventing blood flow towards the hair follicles and thus causing hair damage. Therefore, if you notice hair loss while using Mounjaro, avoid smoking.
6. Be gentle with hair care
Frequently excessive heat styling (broad dryer, curling iron) can dry out and make your hair brittle, leading to easy breakage of the hair follicles. Therefore, the best idea is to naturally dry your hair and use a cooler setting when using hair styling tools.
Do not over-dye or bleach your hair as it can damage your hair or shaft and cause hair loss. Additionally, avoid harsh shampoos as it removes natural oils from your hair and scalp and makes them weakly dry. Use a gentle shampoo.
When will you see the doctor?
Some degree of hair loss can be normal, but excessive and continuous hair requires specialized care. Therefore, consult your doctor if the following hair removal occurs:
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Suddenly, serious, and comes with scalp irritation
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Patchy type or round b-shaped spots
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Continue for 6-12 months or more
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It affects your emotional health
Dermatologists can perform comprehensive assessments through scalp biopsies or blood tests to detect the exact cause of hair loss and provide effective treatment.
Hair removal treatment
If hair loss persists, your doctor may recommend it.
1. medicine
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Minoxidil: The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been approved to treat androgenic alopecia (patterned hair loss) in men and women. It is an over-the-counter topical medicine that is rubbed directly onto the scalp.
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Finasteride: This FDA approved medication for managing patterned hair removal in men only. Can only be used as a prescription drug. It is a tablet for oral consumption with water.
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Corticosteroids: This is also a prescription drug to treat sudden, severe hair loss. It slows down hair removal and helps regenerate your hair. They are applied topically, ingested verbally, or injected into the skin.
2. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
For visible hair thinning or hair loss, doctors recommend platelet-rich plasma. The provider pulls out the blood and then separates the plasma. They inject plasma into the scalp and help to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth.
3. Light therapy
This therapy utilizes medical grade light directed towards the scalp to re-grow the hair on the scalp. Light stimulates the hair follicles and can help grow hair. Multiple sessions are required for best results.
4. Hair transplant surgery
For severe patterned hair removal, hair transplantation is recommended. During a hair transplant surgery, the doctor removes the hair chains from the thickest scalp area of the hair. These hairs are then implanted in the area where the hair is thinnest.
Final thoughts
So does Munjaro cause hair loss? Well, Munjaro itself does not directly cause hair loss, but the rapid weight loss associated with it can cause temporary shedding (Telogen Effluvium). Other factors such as nutritional deficiency, stress, hormonal changes, and fluctuations in blood glucose levels can also contribute to hair removal in Mungjaro.
The good news is that when your weight is stable, your hair will usually regenerate. Supports hair health by eating a balanced diet and supplements and working on stress management. Patience – Hair regeneration usually occurs within 6-12 months.
However, if hair loss is excessive or prolonged, consult your dermatologist to rule out the underlying cause.
Are you worried about hair removal? Talk to your doctor to find the best approach to maintain healthy hair in Munjaro.
Read again: Mounjaro Side Effects: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
FAQ
Can Mounjaro hair removal be reversed?
Yes, that can be reversed. Once your weight is stable and your body adapts to munjaro, your hair can regrow in a few months.
If I have experienced hair loss, should I stop taking Mounjaro?
No, always consult your doctor before stopping using Munjaro as hair removal for its use. Your doctor may help you detect the exact cause.
Can I take biotin with Munjaro?
No vitamin interactions with Mounjaro have been reported. However, certain vitamins can increase the risk of low blood sugar levels when taken in Munjaro. Therefore, always consult your doctor.
What are the complications of hair loss?
Hair loss can lead to physical complications such as scarring, infection, patchy hair growth, low self-esteem, depression, and psychological complications such as anxiety problems.
Which vitamins are suitable for hair growth?
Vitamins A, D, and C, and biotin are incredible vitamins as they stimulate hair follicles and help support scalp health