NEW DELHI (Economy India): Hair loss, medically known as alopecia, could be a possible side effect of popular Ozempic-like medicines, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, according to a recent study published in The BMJ.
Researchers found that adults with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 receptor agonists had a 37 per cent higher risk of developing alopecia compared with those using SGLT-2 inhibitors. The risk was 68 per cent higher when compared with users of DPP-4 inhibitors.
GLP-1 medicines are increasingly used to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. Semaglutide is used in medicines such as Ozempic and Wegovy, while tirzepatide is marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound for different approved uses.
However, researchers stressed that the absolute risk of hair loss remained low. The study also cannot establish that the medicines directly cause hair loss.
Experts have suggested that rapid weight loss, reduced calorie intake and nutritional deficiencies may also contribute to temporary hair shedding in people taking these medicines. Such hair loss may be reversible in many cases.
The findings highlight the need for patients and doctors to consider potential side effects while deciding on GLP-1-based treatments.
(Economy India)
