GLP-1 medications linked to increased hair loss risk in men

A study led by researchers at NYU Langone Health suggests a genetic link between GLP-1 receptor activity and increased hair loss in men. Published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, the research found that men genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia—the most common form of male-pattern baldness—face an additional 7% risk of hair loss when using GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound.

The study focused on the GLP1R gene, which influences the levels of GLP-1 receptor proteins. Researchers observed that higher activity in this gene was more common in men with inherited hair loss patterns. Even after adjusting for other factors like hypertension, insulin resistance, and testosterone levels, the 7% increased risk remained consistent.

While hair thinning is often attributed to rapid weight loss and physical stress, this research indicates a potential biological connection between the medication's pathway and genetic hair loss susceptibility. Additionally, some users report continued overeating due to psychological factors like emotional eating or the time required for the medication to reach full appetite-suppressing effects.