Numerous Females Experience Extreme Hair Shedding on Ozempic-Exploring the Causes
In recent times, there has been growing concern among users of the popular weight loss drug, Ozempic (semaglutide), regarding potential hair loss. While direct evidence linking the drug to hair loss is scarce, it's essential to understand the potential indirect effects.
Clinical trials and FDA labeling do not list hair loss as a common side effect of Ozempic. However, the drug's rapid weight loss effects can lead to a condition known as telogen effluvium, which is characterized by excessive hair shedding due to stress triggers causing more hair follicles to enter a resting phase.
A recent study from March 2025 has linked GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, to an increased risk of hair loss. However, it remains unclear whether this is due to the drug itself or its effects on weight loss.
It's important to note that the hair loss associated with Ozempic-induced weight loss is generally temporary and reversible, especially if nutritional deficiencies are addressed and stress levels are managed. Common deficiencies linked to excessive shedding include zinc, iron, biotin, and protein.
Dr. Vincent Wong, who treats Ozempic-related hair shedding at his London clinic, Omniere, states that rapid weight loss or changes in the body can trigger hair shedding while using these drugs. You may notice extra hair in your hairbrush or shower after a few months of being on the drug, which is typically the body reacting to fast weight loss or a shift in nutrients.
Weight loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda are being used by over 500,000 people in the UK. The majority of these people are paying for the medication via private online pharmacies.
In addressing this issue, Dr. Wong recommends nourishing hair from the inside out by focusing on balanced meals, managing stress, and avoiding harsh hairstyles or over-processing. He also suggests Sylfirm X, a radiofrequency microneedling device, to boost scalp health and promote stronger hair growth. This device stimulates hair follicles, improves blood circulation, calms inflammation, and encourages a healthy scalp.
If you experience hair loss while taking drugs like Ozempic, it's crucial to consult with your doctor first. Altering the dose with the guidance of your doctor may be advised, but stopping the medication altogether is not necessarily recommended. Hormonal imbalances or poorly managed hypothyroidism may cause more dramatic hair loss when on weight loss drugs like Ozempic, particularly in women due to hormonal shifts and changes in insulin levels.
It's important to be fully informed about the potential side effects of any new medications, including weight loss drugs. If concerned or having questions about medications, consult with your doctor or GP. If the shedding doesn't improve, it might be a sign your body needs a bit more support.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2022). Telogen effluvium. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/telogen-effluvium/symptoms-causes/syc-20355652 [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023]. [2] Ozempic (semaglutide) prescribing information. (2022). Novo Nordisk. [online] Available at: https://www.novonordisk-us.com/content/dam/novonordisk-us/PDFs/prescribing-information/Ozempic_PI.pdf [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023]. [3] FDA. (2022). Ozempic (semaglutide) injection, 2mg. [online] Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/211246s037lbl.pdf [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023]. [4] Zhang, H., et al. (2025). Association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and hair loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. [online] Available at: https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgac979 [Accessed 15 Mar. 2023].
- The rapid weight loss effects of the drug Ozempic, often associated with fitness and health-and-wellness, can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, which is a beauty concern marked by excessive hair shedding.
- While the FDA and clinical trials do not list hair loss as a common side effect of Ozempic, there's a recent study that links GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic, with an increased risk of hair loss, potentially stemming from science-related factors or the drug's impact on health.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, administering nutrients like zinc, iron, biotin, and protein can help address deficiencies linked to excessive shedding when using Ozempic, thereby reducing the impact on someone's style and fashion.
- Utilizing a radiofrequency microneedling device such as Sylfirm X, as recommended by Dr. Vincent Wong, can aid in boosting scalp health and promoting stronger hair growth, offering an additional approach to women's health and overall beauty.
- Given the potential side effects concerning hair loss, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adjusting or ceasing the use of drugs like Ozempic, especially for individuals who are already battling hormonal imbalances or hypothyroidism, which may exacerbate the hair loss issue.
