Hair Loss on Mounjaro: Why It Happens and What to Do

Hair loss is one of the concerns that comes up frequently in online discussions about Mounjaro and other weight loss medications. Here's what we know about why it happens and what you can do about it.

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Is Hair Loss a Side Effect of Mounjaro?

Hair loss is not listed as a common side effect in Mounjaro's prescribing information. However, many people report experiencing some hair thinning or shedding while taking GLP-1 medications, including tirzepatide.

The key distinction: the hair loss is likely related to rapid weight loss itself, not the medication directly. This type of hair loss has a medical name: telogen effluvium.

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What Is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium occurs when your body experiences a significant stress or change, causing more hair follicles than usual to enter the "resting" (telogen) phase simultaneously. About 2-3 months later, this hair sheds.

Triggers can include:

• Rapid or significant weight loss
• Nutritional deficiencies (especially protein, iron, zinc)
• Major surgery or illness
• Hormonal changes
• Severe stress

When you lose weight quickly on Mounjaro, your body may interpret this as a stress signal, triggering temporary hair shedding.

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How Common Is It?

While not formally tracked in clinical trials, online communities suggest hair thinning affects a notable minority of people on GLP-1 medications. It's more commonly reported by those who:

• Lose weight rapidly (more than 1kg per week consistently)
• Don't consume adequate protein
• Were already prone to hair thinning

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When Does It Start and Stop?

Typically:

• Onset: 2-4 months after starting treatment or after significant weight loss begins
• Duration: Usually temporary, lasting 3-6 months
• Recovery: Hair typically regrows once weight stabilises and nutrition is optimised

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How to Minimise Hair Loss

Prioritise Protein

Hair is made of protein. When you're eating less overall, getting enough protein becomes even more important. Aim for 1.2-1.6g of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.

Avoid Extreme Calorie Restriction

While Mounjaro reduces appetite naturally, try not to under-eat drastically. Very low calorie intake increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies.

Consider Key Nutrients

Nutrients that support hair health include:

• Iron (especially for women)
• Zinc
• Biotin
• Vitamin D

A blood test can identify deficiencies. Discuss supplementation with your doctor rather than self-prescribing.

Be Patient

Telogen effluvium is temporary. Once your weight stabilises and nutrition is consistent, hair typically recovers.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult your doctor if:

• Hair loss is severe or patchy (could indicate a different condition)
• It continues beyond 6 months
• You have other symptoms like fatigue or feeling cold (possible thyroid issue)

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The Bottom Line

Some hair thinning during rapid weight loss is common and usually temporary. Prioritising protein and overall nutrition is the best strategy. If you're concerned, discuss it with your care team.

At Well Revolution, we monitor your progress and can help you optimise your nutrition throughout treatment.