If you’ve noticed more hair in your brush or thinning strands since starting Wegovy, you’re not alone. This is a question many people have as they embark on their weight management journey with this medication. It can be worrying to experience an unexpected side effect, especially when you’re making a positive change for your health.
Let’s talk about what the research says and why this might be happening. The good news is that for most people, this side effect is often temporary and manageable.
Is Hair Loss a Known Side Effect of Wegovy?
Hair loss is not officially listed as a common side effect in the primary clinical trials for Wegovy (semaglutide). The most frequently reported issues are usually gastrointestinal, like nausea or diarrhea. However, in the wider world of patient experiences, reports of temporary hair thinning are not uncommon. This phenomenon is often linked not directly to the drug itself, but to the significant physical change the body is undergoing: rapid weight loss.
Why Rapid Weight Loss Can Affect Your Hair
This type of hair loss has a name: telogen effluvium. It’s a condition where a significant stressor shocks the hair cycle, pushing a larger number of hairs than usual into the shedding (telogen) phase. Think of your body as a complex system with priorities. When it experiences a major event like surgery, illness, or rapid weight loss, it may redirect energy and nutrients away from non-essential functions—like growing hair—and toward more critical processes. Shedding often becomes noticeable three to six months after the stressful event began.
Caring for Your Hair and Body During Weight Loss
If you’re experiencing hair thinning, it’s important not to panic. This is typically a temporary situation. Here are a few gentle steps you can take to support your body:
Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods: Ensure you’re eating enough protein, iron, zinc, and biotin. These are the building blocks for healthy hair. Even in a calorie deficit, prioritizing lean proteins, legumes, and vegetables is key.
Be Gentle with Your Hair: Avoid tight hairstyles, excessive heat styling, and harsh chemical treatments that can put extra stress on your hair follicles.
Manage Your Overall Stress: Practices like gentle walking, meditation, or ensuring you get enough sleep can help your body manage stress more effectively.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
While some shedding is normal, you should always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help confirm that the hair loss is related to telogen effluvium and rule out other potential causes, such as thyroid issues or specific vitamin deficiencies. They are your best resource for personalized advice and reassurance.