Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.]May 29, 2026

How Drugs That Activate Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptors May Be Linked to Hair Loss: Clinical Findings and Possible Causes

GLP-1 Therapies Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated May 30, 2026

Abstract

The literature suggests an association between GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and hair loss, particularly with tirzepatide and semaglutide.

GLP-1RAs may be linked to telogen effluvium and androgenic alopecia.
The risk of hair loss could increase with longer use, greater weight loss, and higher doses of GLP-1RAs.
Proposed mechanisms for hair loss include changes related to weight loss, alterations in fat tissue, and hormonal influences, though their specific impacts are uncertain.
Some evidence indicates that GLP-1RAs could improve inflammatory alopecia in patients with metabolic issues.
Dermatology practitioners should be informed about the potential for alopecia in patients using GLP-1RAs.

Simplified

BACKGROUND: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are an increasingly prescribed class of antidiabetic medications with expanded use in chronic weight management. Emerging literature has raised concerns regarding dermatologic adverse effects of GLP-1RAs, including various forms of alopecia.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence of GLP-1RA-associated alopecia, differences among agents, and proposed underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A scoping review of GLP-1RAs and alopecia was conducted using PubMed, including articles published up to April 2026.

RESULTS: Current literature presents conflicting evidence regarding the effects of GLP-1RAs on hair loss. Available data suggest an association between GLP-1RAs and telogen effluvium and androgenic alopecia, with risk potentially increasing with longer duration of use, greater weight loss, and higher doses, particularly with tirzepatide and semaglutide. Proposed mechanisms include weight loss-related changes, alterations in dermal white adipose tissue, and hormonal influences, although their relative contributions remain unclear. Conversely, a smaller body of literature suggests improvement in inflammatory alopecia with GLP-1RA use, particularly among patients with metabolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSION: Given the increasing use of GLP-1RAs, dermatology practitioners should be aware of their association with alopecia and consider patient counseling, monitoring, and proactive treatment in patients receiving GLP-1RA therapy.

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How Drugs That Activate Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptors May Be Linked to Hair Loss: Clinical Findings and Possible Causes

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