Mounjaro Hair Loss: Can Tirzepatide Cause Balding?

In this article, we’ll look at whether hair loss is a known side effect of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and what might be causing it. We’ll explore why some people may notice hair thinning while using Mounjaro, whether this type of hair loss is likely to be permanent and what steps you can take to help prevent or manage it. We’ll also explain when to seek medical advice and discuss the support available if you’re worried about losing hair while taking this medication.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about Mounjaro and hair loss:

• Hair loss is officially recognised as a common side effect of Mounjaro, with some people using the medication having reported experiencing hair shedding.

• The most likely cause of hair loss during Mounjaro treatment is a condition called telogen effluvium, which is often triggered by physical stress, emotional stress, or significant weight changes.

• Most people find that hair growth begins to return to normal within three to six months, once the body has adjusted to weight loss and overall health has stabilised.

• Preventing or reducing hair loss while taking Mounjaro involves focusing on sustainable weight loss, eating a nutrient-rich diet, staying well-hydrated, reducing stress and using gentle hair care products.

• If hair loss lasts longer than six months, gets worse, or comes with other symptoms like fatigue or brittle nails, you should speak to a healthcare professional.

Is hair loss a side effect of Mounjaro?

Hair loss is currently listed as a common or direct side effect of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in its official patient information leaflet [1]. However, some people using medications such as Mounjaro or similar weight loss injections have reported experiencing hair thinning or shedding [2]. It’s important to note that less common side effects of these treatments may include hair loss, as well as symptoms like fatigue, bloating, and heartburn [3].

While hair loss is not experienced by everyone, it can be an indirect effect of rapid weight loss [4]. Significant changes in diet and body weight can place temporary stress on the body, potentially triggering a condition called telogen effluvium, a form of temporary hair loss often linked to physical or emotional stress [5].

If you are experiencing hair loss while taking Mounjaro, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional, especially if it is severe or persistent.

Potential causes: Hair loss on Mounjaro

There are a few reasons why someone might experience hair loss while taking Mounjaro, although the medication itself may not directly cause it. One factor may be rapid weight loss, as mentioned above.

Another factor might be emotional or psychological stress, which can occur alongside significant lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, or as part of the overall experience of managing a long-term health condition. Research shows that stress can trigger immune and hormonal responses in the body that interrupt the normal hair growth cycle, resulting in increased shedding [7].

Hair loss due to rapid weight loss

One of the most likely explanations for losing hair whilst using Mounjaro is rapid weight loss, which can place the body under physical stress. This type of stress can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, where more hairs than usual enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle and fall out a few months later [7].

Is hair loss when taking Mounjaro permanent?

Hair loss experienced while taking Mounjaro is usually temporary. Telogen effluvium (the most common type of hair loss when using Mounjaro) tends to resolve on its own as your body adjusts to the changes. For many people, hair growth begins to return to normal within three to six months, once weight and overall health have stabilised.

If hair loss continues or becomes more severe, it may suggest an underlying issue such as a vitamin or mineral deficiency, a thyroid disorder, or another medical condition. If this happens, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional for further assessment and support.

How to prevent hair loss when taking Mounjaro

Aim for sustainable weight loss

To help prevent hair loss while taking Mounjaro, it’s important to focus on achieving gradual, sustainable weight loss rather than losing weight too quickly. Rapid weight loss can place the body under physical stress, which may contribute to temporary hair shedding.

One way to support steady weight loss is by following the recommended Mounjaro dosing schedule. The medication is designed to be used gradually, starting with a low dose and increasing slowly over time. This approach allows your body to adjust to the treatment and helps reduce the risk of side effects, including those linked to stress, such as hair loss [8].

Sticking to your prescribed dose, unless advised by a healthcare professional, helps to keep weight loss at a manageable pace and reduces unnecessary strain on the body [9].

Everyone responds differently to Mounjaro, and while some may notice weight loss early on, others may need more time before seeing noticeable results. Staying consistent with the treatment plan, eating a balanced diet and giving your body time to adjust can all help reduce the chances of experiencing hair loss during treatment [10].

Getting the right nutrients

Maintaining a balanced diet is key to supporting healthy hair, especially when taking a weight loss medication like Mounjaro. Hair thinning during weight loss is often linked to nutritional deficiencies, particularly if you're consuming fewer calories and may not be getting all the nutrients your body needs [11].

Essential nutrients for hair health include:

• Protein

• Iron

• Zinc

• Biotin

• Vitamin D

• B vitamins

Low levels of these nutrients can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to increased shedding. You may also notice other signs of deficiency, such as brittle nails or dry skin [12].

Even if your appetite is reduced while on Mounjaro, it’s still important to make sure you’re eating a nutrient-rich diet. This means including a wide range of whole foods, such as:

• Lean meats

• Eggs

• Leafy greens

• Nuts

• Whole grains

In some cases, supplements like biotin, zinc or collagen may help support hair growth, but you should always speak to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to make sure it's suitable for you [13].

Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support hair health while taking Mounjaro. When your body doesn’t get enough essential nutrients, it can prioritise vital functions over things like hair growth, which may lead to thinning or increased shedding.

Key nutrients such as protein, iron, zinc, and biotin all play an important role in maintaining strong, healthy hair. Protein provides the building blocks for hair structure, while iron and zinc support the hair growth cycle. Biotin, a B vitamin, is also linked to improved hair strength and thickness [14].

Drink plenty of water

Staying well-hydrated is a simple yet important step in supporting hair health while taking Mounjaro. Water plays a vital role in many bodily functions, including the delivery of nutrients to your hair follicles and the removal of waste products. Without enough fluids, your scalp can become dry, and hair strands may become brittle, making them more likely to break or fall out [15].

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your scalp healthy and supports the natural hair growth cycle. It also aids in the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals needed for strong, healthy hair.

Use sensitive hair care products

Using gentle, sensitive hair care products can help protect your hair while taking Mounjaro, especially if you're noticing any thinning or increased shedding. Harsh treatments, such as chemical dyes, perms and bleach, can weaken hair strands and irritate the scalp, making hair more prone to breakage.

It’s also best to avoid excessive heat styling with straighteners, curling tongs, or very hot hairdryers, as high temperatures can dry out the hair and damage its structure. If you do use heat tools, apply a heat protection spray and use the lowest effective setting.

Reduce exposure to stress triggers and be patient

Managing stress is an important part of preventing further hair loss while taking Mounjaro. High stress levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle and worsen a condition known as telogen effluvium, where more hairs than usual shift into the resting phase and eventually fall out [16].

Incorporating stress-reducing habits into your daily routine can help support both your emotional well-being and your hair health. Activities such as journaling, meditation, yoga, or even a short daily walk can all make a difference. Regular exercise is also effective at managing stress and improving your mood while supporting your weight loss goals.

Use wigs

While you wait for your hair to recover, there are plenty of ways to manage thinning. Wigs can be a helpful part of your grooming routine, giving the appearance of fuller, thicker hair while your natural growth improves. Simple, non-medical options can help you feel more comfortable and confident as your hair gradually returns to its normal growth cycle.

Seeking medical help for hair loss when taking Mounjaro

Losing your hair can be a distressing experience, especially if it happens while you’re focusing on improving your health with Mounjaro. In most cases, any shedding that occurs is temporary and linked to the body’s adjustment to rapid weight loss or changes in nutrition and lifestyle.

By following the steps outlined above, such as eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress and caring for your hair gently, you can support your body’s overall health and reduce the chances of experiencing significant or long-term hair thinning.

However, if hair loss continues for more than six months, becomes more severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, brittle nails, or changes in mood or weight, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional. They can carry out blood tests to check for potential underlying causes, including nutritional deficiencies, thyroid disorders, or other medical conditions that may be contributing to the shedding.

Final Thoughts

While hair loss is officially recognised as a common side effect of Mounjaro, some people may experience temporary shedding during treatment. This is often linked to factors such as rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies or increased stress levels, rather than the medication itself. The good news is that this type of hair loss is usually reversible and there are steps you can take to support healthy hair growth, including eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, using gentle hair care products and managing stress. If hair loss lasts for a while, gets worse, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

Sources

[1] Mounjaro® 2.5 mg KwikPen® solution for injection in pre-filled pen - Medicines

[2] Do Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro & Zepbound cause hair loss? - Drugs.com

[3] Zepbound UK Guide: Can you get the weight loss injections in the UK? - UK Meds

[4] Doctor’s Corner: Your Questions About Mounjaro Answered - UK Meds

[5] Telogen Effluvium - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

[6] The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review | Dermatology and Therapy

[7] How stress causes hair loss | National Institutes of Health (NIH)

[8] Mounjaro dosing & titration: Which tirzepatide dosage do I need? - UK Meds

[9] Should I Stick to My Mounjaro Dose or Move Up? - UK Meds

[10] Mounjaro 5th Dose: Is It Safe? - UK Meds

[11] Which Vitamins To Take On Mounjaro? - UK Meds

[12] How To Stop Hair Loss: A Guide To Saving Your Hair - UK Meds

[13] Which Vitamins To Take On Mounjaro? - UK Meds

[14] Top Tips For A Receding Hairline - UK Meds

[15] The Links Between Proper Hydration And Healthy Hair | MHR Clinic UK | Hair Transplants in Manchester and Harrogate

[16] How stress causes hair loss | National Institutes of Health (NIH)