If you go online and do some research about drugs and hair loss, you’ll see within seconds that plenty of drugs may cause hair loss as a side effect. In this article, we’re digging deeper to find out whether any of the more up-to-date weight loss drugs can lead to hair loss. We’ll also discover whether there are any hair loss prevention tips that would work well in this situation.
If you start looking into this topic, you’ll find lots of questions popping up on Google. People want to know if the weight loss drug Saxenda causes hair loss. They’re also asking the same question about Wegovy, the brand name for an injection of semaglutide, approved by the FDA in 2021. Hair loss does not appear in the side effects for either of these drugs, although this hasn’t stopped people from inquiring about it online. As with all medications, it’s important to weigh up any potential side effects with the advantages of taking them. It’s also important to discuss your health and any medical conditions you might have with your physician so that together you may decide if you are eligible to take the medication. If you decide to move forward, continual medical supervision is beneficial to achieve optimal results.
Is There A Connection Between Weight Loss Drugs and Hair Loss?
We can use a familiar saying here: Correlation does not imply causation. It is ideal to apply to this situation. Just because some people who take weight loss drugs may experience hair loss, it does not mean the drugs are causing their hair loss. Statology gives a superb example of how we might make this mistake. There is a strong correlation between statistics for sales of ice cream in the US and shark attacks, with both peaking during the summer months. Of course, we know that one does not cause the other – it’s simply that both peak at times when the weather is good and we’re all enjoying the coast and its beaches.
There’s plenty of evidence to suggest that major changes in diet can lead to hair loss alongside weight loss. This may occur with restrictive diets or in scenarios where people lose a lot of weight in a short time. Other risk factors include a lack of nutrients – often seen in those on crash diets, which are not recommended. A lack of protein has also been linked with hair loss, so we can use all this information to help stop hair loss if you are considering taking weight loss drugs.
Anyone who is talking to their doctor about getting weight loss medication or treatment is likely to make changes to their diet at the same time. Furthermore, weight loss drugs work by reducing appetite in those who take them. While it is recommended that individuals eat a balanced and nourishing diet, this won’t always happen. Some people might end up reducing the calories in each meal too, which may increase the chances they will experience hair shedding or hair loss.
Bottom Line? If You’re Thinking About Weight Loss Drugs, Focus on Your Nutrition Too
There doesn’t appear to be much evidence that weight loss drugs lead to hair loss. It’s far more likely that reducing calorie intake, altering the diet, and potentially not getting enough nutrients each day are the issues. You may consider working with a nutritionist or dietician that will assist you on putting together a well-balanced eating plan.
The good news is that hair loss caused by weight loss – known as telogen effluvium – is typically temporary. Better still, you can avoid it even if you do begin taking weight loss drugs. Simply focus on your nutrition and make sure you eat a healthy range of foods each day. This is even more important as you’ll naturally eat less as the weight loss drugs take effect. Plenty of protein, complex carbs, and lots of fruit and vegetables should ensure you get an even balance of vitamins and nutrients at each meal.
The safe amount of weight loss each week is between one and two pounds. If you stay within this zone, you should lose weight in a safe and healthy way without experiencing any hair shedding or hair loss. Remember that crash diets and fast weight loss is more likely to lead to alopecia as well. So, by preventing that and taking a safer route to a better weight, you’ll likely stop hair loss from happening to begin with.
If you are experiencing hair shedding or hair loss, contact the team at Unique Hair Concepts for a complimentary, private consultation.
