Study Finds 7% Higher Hair Loss Risk in Men on GLP-1 Drugs

New Study Quantifies Hair Loss Risk With GLP-1 Drugs

A study led by NYU Langone Health found that men genetically predisposed to male-pattern hair loss have a 7% higher risk of losing hair if they use GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Zepbound, for weight loss or type 2 diabetes.

The study, published September 3 in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, is the first to establish a genetic link between GLP-1 drug use and increased risk of androgenetic alopecia in men.

How the Study Was Conducted and Who It Applies To

Researchers analyzed data from large genetic databases, including over 200,000 mostly white men, to examine the relationship between the GLP1R gene (which increases GLP-1 receptor protein levels) and genes associated with androgenetic alopecia.

The analysis focused on men because male-pattern hair loss is better studied than female-pattern hair loss, and the genetic overlap could only be evaluated in this group.

What the Evidence Shows About Hair Loss and GLP-1 Use

The study found that men with genetic risk for androgenetic alopecia who also have higher GLP1R activity face a 7% increased risk of hair loss when using GLP-1 drugs.

This risk remained even after researchers adjusted for other known hair loss factors, including hypertension, insulin resistance, and low testosterone.

Practical Implications for Men Considering GLP-1 Drugs

Men with a family history of male-pattern baldness may want to discuss hair loss risk with their clinician before starting GLP-1 medications for weight loss or diabetes.

Some users have reported hair thinning as a side effect, but hair growth often resumes several months after weight stabilizes. The study suggests future possibilities for screening or preventive treatments, but these are not yet standard practice.

Limitations and Next Steps in Research

The study used genetic databases that were predominantly white and focused on men, so findings may not apply to women or other populations.

Researchers note that more work is needed to understand the biological mechanisms and to determine whether similar risks exist for women using GLP-1 drugs.