Mounjaro (generic name: tirzepatide) is a relatively new drug that can be used to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.
It can also help people lose lots of weight.
There have been anecdotal reports of hair loss associated with Mounjaro, but further research is needed to establish a clear link.
Whether you are brand-new to Mounjaro and you are wondering about the possible side effects or you have been taking it for some time and experienced hair loss, we’ll answer all your questions surrounding the drug and alopecia in this article.
Is hair loss a side effect of Mounjaro?
Hair loss is not one of the side effects currently listed on Mounjaro’s packaging/website. However, some users have experienced this distressing symptom while using the drug.
Some health personnel believe that hair loss may be due to the stress that your body goes through when you rapidly lose weight. We discuss these and some other possible causes of Mounjaro-related hair loss below.
Why do people experience hair loss when taking Mounjaro?
Here are a few why people who use Mounjaro may experience hair loss:
Telogen Effluvium
Mounjaro is not yet approved as a weight-loss drug by the FDA. However, it can cause significant weight loss in people who use it.
This is because the drug activates some receptors that can regulate appetite and slow down digestion.
Some experts believe that stress induced by rapid weight loss may be the cause of hair loss in people using Mounjaro and similar drugs, e.g., Ozempic and Wegovy.
The medical term for this condition is telegon effluvium, also known as stress shedding.
Type 2 Diabetes
One study that involved African-American women with type 2 diabetes showed that the condition may increase the risk of hair loss.
So, hair loss may actually be a result of the condition that Mounjaro is meant to treat and not a direct result of the drug itself.
Other causes
It is possible to have an undiagnosed condition that can cause hair loss while using Mounjaro.
From nutritional deficiencies to conditions that affect hormonal balance (e.g., thyroid problems and polycystic ovarian syndrome), several conditions can affect hair growth.
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How common is hair loss when taking weight loss drugs?
Based on the results of various studies, hair loss is not something people commonly experience with Mounjaro and similar drugs that induce weight loss.
In a clinical trial that assessed the effect of Mounjaro in the treatment of obesity, 4.9% to 5.7% percent of people taking 5 mg to 15 mg of Mounjaro experienced alopecia, compared to 0.9% of those who got a placebo drug.
Will my hair grow back after Mounjaro?
Hair loss from telogen effluvium typically begins around three months after the start of weight loss. It can last for several months.
Fortunately, the hair loss is usually temporary. While timelines can vary from person to person, it usually reverses after six to 12 months – when weight has stabilized.
Hair loss related to Mounjaro use may primarily affect scalp hair. Many report that their hair tends to become thinner as opposed to having bald spots.
The thinning may not even be noticeable to others. You are more likely to notice your hair shedding more than usual when you wash or brush it than to have clumps falling out.
Tips to reduce hair loss while taking Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
As mentioned, hair loss is usually a temporary side effect of weight loss. After your weight stabilizes, your hair typically grows back to its original thickness.
While waiting for this to happen, here are some ways to minimize hair loss while taking Tirzepatide:
Follow your doctor’s advice
It is best to have slow and steady weight loss rather than a rapid drop in pounds.
This gives your body time to adjust and reduces the levels of stress it goes through. Having a plan that allows this slow weight loss is important.
Speak with your healthcare provider about your weight loss goals, the targeted time frame, your exercise regimen, and your diet.
Stick to whatever dietary and exercise plan they outline for you. Altering this may result in too rapid weight loss, which could trigger hair loss.
Pay attention to your diet
Eating a well-balanced diet may help in the growth and health of your hair. You should particularly ensure that you’re taking enough proteins (based on the recommendations of your health care provider).
Your hair strands are made of protein. So, not eating enough proteins can lead to dry and brittle hair, thinning, and excessive shedding.
Consider supplements
Some supplements, such as those containing iron, zinc, and B vitamins (particularly biotin), may help with hair growth and reduce hair shedding.
Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for advice on these supplements.
Be gentle with your hair
Avoid harsh cleansing products and styling tools, as these could cause further damage to your hair.
Also, limit the manipulation of your hair and avoid heat as much as possible. When you do use heat, ensure that you apply a heat protectant first.
Conclusion
There is currently no proof that Mounjaro directly causes hair loss. However, some people experience hair loss while using the drug.
Experts believe that this is often due to telegon effluvium, a condition in which a stressor (like rapid weight loss) triggers hair loss. Type 2 diabetes itself may also increase the risk of hair loss.
Telegon effluvium usually causes temporary hair loss over several months. Once weight stabilizes, hair normally regrows.
Some ways to reduce hair loss include following the plan recommended by your healthcare provider and being gentle with your hair.
If you experience extreme or persistent hair loss while using Mounjaro, speak with your doctor so that you can be assessed for other possible causes.
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