Does Zepbound make you lose hair?
Zepbound doesn’t directly cause hair loss. Instead, hair loss is the body’s response to rapid weight loss.
In clinical studies, people taking Zepbound lost the most weight within the first 8 months of treatment. The physical stress of losing weight so quickly can cause a temporary form of hair loss called telogen effluvium (TE).
With TE, your body stops or slows down the production of new hair follicles. At the same time, existing hair follicles are triggered to fall out earlier.
In general, TE causes hair thinning rather than total hair loss. You may notice more hair falling out in the shower or on your hairbrush.
Hair loss with Zepbound is more common in females. This may be due to other factors that can trigger telogen effluvium, including hormonal changes (like low estrogen levels) and nutritional deficiencies (like low iron levels).
Due to menstruation, females may be more affected by these factors than males.
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While hair loss was one of the most commonly reported side effects in studies of Zepbound, it’s not common overall.
In these studies, 7.1% of females experienced hair loss, compared to 0.5% of males. Researchers considered a side effect to be “common” if it occurred in 5% or more participants.
So, while hair loss is technically a common side effect of Zepbound, most people likely won’t experience it.
Note: Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article uses the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
Hair loss from Zepbound is usually temporary. Your hair should begin to grow back as usual within a few months as your body weight becomes more stable.
Eat nutritious foods: Hair is made primarily of a protein called keratin. Because of this, eating protein-rich foods can help promote hair growth. It’s also important to eat a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables to provide your body with other nutrients for hair growth. Examples of hair-healthy foods include salmon, eggs, sweet potatoes, and nuts.
Try a vitamin or supplement: Zepbound reduces appetite and hunger cravings, helping you eat less. But, as a result, you may not be getting enough nutrients through your diet. If this is the case for you, consider taking a hair growth vitamin or supplement. Examples include biotin, vitamin E, or even a multivitamin that’s specifically formulated for hair growth. If you’re not sure which option is right for you, a doctor or pharmacist can help you decide.
Consider a medication for hair loss: Prescription and over-the-counter medications are available to help regrow thinning hair. Examples include Rogaine (minoxidil), finasteride, and spironolactone. Medications for hair loss are commonly available as pills that you swallow or foams you rub into your scalp. Talk with your doctor about which form might be best for you.
Hair loss is possible with Zepbound, but it’s usually caused by the body’s response to sudden weight loss. It can also be caused by vitamin deficiencies.
This type of hair loss is reversible. Your hair should grow back on its own within a few months, but you can take some steps to help promote hair growth. For help picking the best foods, supplements, or medications for hair loss, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
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