Wegovy oral tablets launched in Germany amid hair loss concerns

The availability of oral semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy pills, has expanded in Germany following approval by the European Commission in July. This oral version offers an alternative to the weekly injection, with a daily 25 mg dose intended to be taken on an empty stomach. Clinical data indicates weight loss efficacy between 14% and 16.6% over 64 weeks compared to 2–3% for placebos. Costs for the treatment in Germany start at approximately 172 euros per month.

Recent research has also highlighted potential side effects associated with GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Ozempic. A study led by the University of Pennsylvania and published in ‘The BMJ’ suggests a link between these drugs and an increased risk of hair loss, medically known as alopecia. Researchers believe this may be caused by rapid weight loss, though biological factors related to hereditary hair loss may also play a role. The exact interaction between the medication, weight loss, and individual predisposition remains under investigation.