Does Wegovy cause hair loss?
Wegovy does list hair loss as an uncommon side effect, occurring in about 2.5% of people taking semaglutide versus 1.0% on placebo, but this is generally mild and most patients recover even while continuing treatment. There is no evidence that semaglutide directly damages hair follicles; instead, hair thinning is usually linked to rapid weight loss known as telogen effluvium, a temporary shedding phase triggered when the body adjusts to significant change. This type of hair loss typically begins a few months after starting treatment and regrowth often occurs within three to six months once weight stabilises. In the UK, this effect is recognised in the summary of product characteristics approved by the MHRA, and healthcare professionals can reassure patients that hair loss is usually short-lived and reversible. Anyone concerned about hair thinning should discuss nutritional support and hair care strategies with their GP or pharmacist.
- Hair loss occurs in approximately 2.5% of Wegovy users versus 1.0% on placebo, and is classified as an uncommon side effect.
- Semaglutide does not directly cause hair follicle damage; shedding is due to telogen effluvium from rapid weight loss.
- Telogen effluvium typically presents several months after treatment onset and resolves within 3–6 months once weight loss stabilises.
- In the UK, the MHRA-approved product information for Wegovy includes hair loss as a potential but mild and reversible effect.
- Patients experiencing hair thinning should seek advice on balanced nutrition, gentle hair care, and stress management from their GP or pharmacist.