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Weight management drugs may increase risk of hair loss, researchers say

A new study found users of GLP-1 medications had a higher risk of developing alopecia

Weight management drugs may increase risk of hair loss, researchers say
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StarsInsider
23/07/2026 09:30 ‧ 2 weeks ago | StarsInsider

HEALTH

Weight loss

Individuals taking GLP-1 medications are more likely to develop non-scarring alopecia (i.e. hair loss) than those using other diabetes treatments, this according to a new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania.

The findings, published July 22 in The BMJ, add to growing research into the potential side effects of the increasingly popular medications.

Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs are now widely prescribed for weight management and appetite control. Despite the increased relative risk, researchers stressed that hair loss remained uncommon, affecting an estimated three to nine people per 1,000 users each year.

One of the most popular GLP-1 drugs is Ozempic. Hailed as a "miracle drug" by high-profile celebrities, Ozempic, whose weight-loss effects have gone viral on social media, was originally prescribed to help combat type 2 diabetes.

To learn more about Ozempic, who does and doesn't admit to using it, and whether it's the slim-down fix everybody makes it out to be, click through this gallery.

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