Does Zepbound Cause Hair Loss?

Starting a new medication can leave you with questions about side effects, and for some Zepbound users, one concern is increased hair shedding.

Although hair thinning has been reported by some people using Zepbound, the shedding is more commonly linked to the rapid weight loss and nutritional changes than it is to the drug itself.

Why Does Zepbound Cause Hair Loss?

Zepbound ( tirzepatide ) has been associated with reports of hair shedding. In 2022, the FDA noted that  ≥5% of patients treated with Zepbound reported hair loss.

That said, research suggests that the medication itself is unlikely to be the primary cause. The cause is more likely  telogen effluvium, a temporary type of hair loss that can develop after your body experiences a significant physical or emotional stressor. Losing weight quickly is one of the best-known triggers for telogen effluvium.

During periods of rapid weight loss, the body is working overtime and may shift its priorities towards essential functions. This can cause more hair follicles than usual to enter the resting phase. Down the line, these resting hairs begin to shed, making your hair look thinner.

Because of Zepbound’s effects on appetite, you may end up eating less protein and other essential nutrients required for hair growth . When this intake falls short, your body may have fewer resources available to support healthy hair.

What Can You Do About Zepbound Hair Loss?

If you’ve noticed more shedding after starting Zepbound, the goal is to support your body’s recovery. Hair grows in cycles, and improvements take time, but beneficial daily habits can help.

A good place to start is your diet. Because keratin, a fibrous structural protein , is the primary building block for hair, getting enough protein each day is key for supporting your hair growth cycle. The Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein is  1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For a 150-pound adult, that’s a minimum of around 80 grams per day.

You can also add clinically studied hair-support products into the mix, like ours at OMI . We formulated our Nourish Hair Growth Peptides specifically for GLP-1-related hair thinning, pairing our patented IFP-131™ peptides with key nutrients like folate, zinc, iron, and vitamin D for well-rounded support. Our peptides are 100% drug and hormone-free and third-party tested, with clinical studies backing the results.

The Takeaway

In most cases, weight loss-related hair shedding is temporary. By focusing on nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs, you can continue to support healthy hair growth throughout your Zepbound journey. If your shedding becomes severe or lasts longer than expected, it’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider.

In the meantime, our  clinically studied peptides at OMI can help support your hair health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Zepbound hair loss last?

Temporary shedding typically improves within a few months after the underlying trigger stabilizes, though full regrowth may take longer.

Can hair grow back after Zepbound?

Yes, if shedding is caused by telogen effluvium, hair usually begins to regrow once the hair growth cycle returns to normal.

Should I stop taking Zepbound if my hair is shedding?

Don’t stop taking Zepbound without speaking to your healthcare provider, as they can help determine the cause of your hair shedding and recommend the best course of action.