Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has been hailed as a breakthrough in weight management, delivering impressive results. But for some, concerns around hair thinning cast a shadow over the benefits.
But is there really a connection? Let’s take a close look at the evidence.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro has shown efficacy for individuals who are overweight or obese and who also have associated health conditions. Patients lost an average of 21% of their starting body weight after 18 months of treatment.¹
But does Mounjaro cause hair loss?
Hair loss, or alopecia, was added this year as a common side effect of Mounjaro. Despite the report from the MHRA showing that around 4% of participants reported alopecia (hair loss), compared to 0.7% in placebo groups,² warnings suggest that hair loss is common and can affect up to 1 in 10.
The phenomenon is likely tied to telogen effluvium, a temporary hair loss condition which can be triggered by the metabolic stress associated with rapid weight loss.3 This condition has been observed with various methods of significant weight reduction, including rigorous dieting and other weight loss interventions.3
The role of rapid weight loss in hair thinning
Telogen effluvium occurs when a significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase due to stressors like rapid weight loss.3 This leads to noticeable shedding, often more severe than usual. The condition typically resolves within months once the body stabilises, but the experience can be distressing.3
Preventing hair loss during weight loss
While telogen effluvium is typically temporary, there are steps you can take to minimise its impact:
Follow a gradual weight loss plan: Aim for no more than 0.5-0.9 kg weight loss per week to reduce stress on your body.4
Prioritise nutrition: Ensure your diet includes sufficient protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins (like biotin). These nutrients are essential for hair health.5
Hair loss during weight loss, especially with medications like Mounjaro, is often temporary and linked to rapid body changes. A balanced approach to weight management, including proper nutrition and lifestyle adjustments, can support healthy hair. If you’re concerned, speak to a clinician for personalised advice.
References
Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., & Stefanski, A., for the SURMOUNT-1 Investigators. (2022). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
Almohanna, H. M., Ahmed, A. A., Tsatalis, J. P., & Tosti, A. (2018). The role of vitamins and minerals in hair loss: A review. Dermatology and Therapy, 9(1), 51–70. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6
Liang, W., Zhao, Y., Cai, B., Huang, Y., Chen, X., Ni, N., Wang, Y., Lin, Z., Lin, C., & Huang, K. (2024). Psychological stress induces hair regenerative disorders through corticotropin-releasing hormone-mediated autophagy inhibition. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 699, 149564.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149564
