GLP-1 medications commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity may be associated with a modest increase in hair loss, according to a study published by The BMJ on July 22, 2026.
The drug class includes semaglutide, sold under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound. Researchers found that adults with type 2 diabetes who used GLP-1 receptor agonists developed alopecia more often than patients taking two other common types of diabetes medication.
Although the relative increase was significant, the researchers emphasized that the absolute risk of hair loss remained low. Still, knowing about the possible side effect could help patients and clinicians make more informed treatment decisions together.
Hair Loss Reports Linked to Ozempic and Similar Drugs
Hair loss has previously been reported as a possible side effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly medications containing semaglutide or tirzepatide. However, there has been limited research directly comparing the risk among GLP-1 users with the risk among patients taking other diabetes treatments.
