A major new study presented at the 2025 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Paris has revealed a concerning link between GLP-1 receptor agonists—popular weight loss and diabetes medications—and a heightened risk of hair loss. The findings suggest that these drugs may trigger or expose underlying hair loss conditions rather than directly cause them.
What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?
GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) like Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, Trulicity, and Monjaro are increasingly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. Their benefits for metabolic health and cardiovascular function are well-documented, but new research is shedding light on lesser-known side effects—including nonscarring hair loss.
Hair Loss Side Effects: What the Data Shows
The study, led by Yagiz Matthew Akiska from George Washington University, analyzed data from over 1 million patients using the TriNetX US Collaborative Network. Researchers found that GLP-1 RA users had significantly higher rates of:
- Telogen Effluvium (TE) – temporary hair shedding due to stress or hormonal changes
- Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) – commonly known as male or female pattern baldness
- General Nonscarring Hair Loss – a combination of TE, AGA, and alopecia areata (AA), although AA itself showed no increase
These results were based on a matched cohort of 547,993 GLP-1 RA users and an equal number of nonusers, adjusted for age, sex, BMI, race, and diabetes status.
Why This Matters
As GLP-1 medications become more mainstream, unexpected side effects like hair loss are gaining attention. Akiska noted that most previous reports were anecdotal or based on small patient groups, making this large-scale analysis a crucial step in understanding the true risks.
Patients included in the study had no prior history of hair loss or related conditions such as thyroid disease, chemotherapy, or nutritional deficiencies—strengthening the case for a drug-related association.
Should You Be Concerned?
While the findings don’t prove that GLP-1 drugs directly cause hair loss, they highlight the need for awareness among patients and healthcare providers. If you’re using GLP-1 medications and experiencing hair thinning or shedding, consult your doctor to explore possible causes and treatment options.