Mounjaro, scientifically known as tirzepatide, has been the buzz in the health community. It’s not just the regular weight loss drug. The drug is genuinely effective in helping adults with type 2 diabetes effectively gain control over their health. However, it’s also doing so well in weight loss.
Like other medications, it also comes with some drug-related side effects. If you have been following in any way on the new solutions on weight loss, you may have come across surprises about hair loss. Are there any facts about Mounjaro that can lead to hair loss? Well, with some drugs meant for weight loss, such a question is valid.
Let’s unpack the facts that can help untangle the myths about Mounjaro and hair loss.
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro, also known as Tirzepatide, is a breakthrough medication developed by Eli Lilly to help adults manage their Type 2 Diabetes. It is a new drug that has recently been certified by the FDA for use.
Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which your body does not use insulin in the most useful, natural way possible. This leads to increased blood sugar threats. Mounjaro functions by targeting two critical hormones in your body, combining Glucagon-like peptide-1 and Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide. These hormones play a key role in regulating your blood sugar levels.
Moreover, Mounjaro helps by:
- Increasing insulin release when you need it.
- Decreasing glucose production in your liver.
- Slowing down digestion to prevent a sudden rise in blood sugar levels.
One of the significant advantages of Mounjaro is that it not only helps manage Type 2 Diabetes, but it also has shown promising results in aiding weight loss. This can be crucial for individuals struggling with both diabetes and obesity.
Does Mounjaro Cause Hair Loss?
While the drug’s package insert does not mention it as a common adverse reaction, a clinical trial from 2022 published that Mounjaro (tirzepatide) caused hair loss in nearly 6% of patients compared to just 1% in placebo.
The connection between Mounjaro and hair loss is presumed to be due to telogen effluvium. This medical condition is caused by a disturbance in the normal cycle of hair growth and loss. Telogen effluvium is often caused by high-stress situations or significant changes in life, such as pregnancy, divorce, or, in this case, rapid weight loss.
It should be noted that Mounjaro does not cause hair loss on its own, but rather the body’s reaction to changes in the treatment process. When you take Mounjaro, you eat less because it suppresses your appetite.
When Does Hair Loss Start?
Based on a study in 2020, telogen effluvium hair loss is usually noted about 3 months after the onset of weight loss. This lasts for a period of several months and, once the weight is stabilized, reverses over 6 to 12 months. However, the situation can be different. If hair loss that is disturbing or does not eliminate when using Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound occurs, contact your weight loss healthcare provider or dermatologist. There may be different reasons causing hair loss, it may be irreversible or a more serious illness. The doctor will tell you if there is a recommended treatment for hair loss.
Other Common Side Effects of Mounjaro
Just like any medication, Mounjaro has some common side effects that you might experience. These side effects often include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Hypoglycemia
Keep in mind that these side effects usually occur when you first start taking the medication and may go away on their own as your body adjusts.
Serious Side Effects
While most side effects are manageable, there are some more serious side effects to be aware of:
- Pancreatitis: This is a rare but serious side effect. If you experience severe abdominal pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Allergic reactions: Although uncommon, some people might experience allergic reactions to Mounjaro. Symptoms include itching, rash, and difficulty breathing. Contact your healthcare provider if you suspect an allergic reaction.
- Thyroid cancer: A rare but serious side effect is an increased risk of developing medullary thyroid carcinoma. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Mounjaro.
How to Treat Hair Loss from Mounjaro
Experiencing hair loss while using Mounjaro can be distressing, but don’t worry. There are several steps you can take to help counteract this side effect and promote healthy hair growth.
First, ensure you’re getting enough essential nutrients in your diet. To begin, ensure you get the necessary nutrients in your diet. Hair loss can be made worse by a lack of key vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and vitamin D.
To maintain healthy hair growth, try incorporating foods rich in these nutrients into your meals, or consider taking supplements if needed. Foods like red meat, fortified cereals, and seafood often have high levels of vitamin B12, while spinach, legumes, and pumpkin seeds are rich sources of iron and zinc. For an extra vitamin D boost, look for fortified milk or plant-based alternatives, and try to spend some time in the sun.
Also, applying natural oils could help treat hair loss from using Mounjaro. This oil treatment is beneficial, and some types reduce hair loss and promote hair growth. For instance, castor oil is a useful remedy for the two hair issues. Apply a few drops of castor oil onto your scalp and massage it gently over the places appearing hairless. Allow the oil to stay for a minimum of one hour before rinsing your hair. Cleansing this oil using a good shampoo helps.
Additionally, you might find it beneficial to use products specifically designed to combat hair loss:
- Shampoos and conditioners with ingredients that support hair growth
- Scalp massages to stimulate blood flow and promote growth
- Gentle brushing and detangling to avoid unnecessary hair breakage
If you do follow these expert suggestions and work on receiving the right nutrients, you will take steps to eliminate hair loss from Mounjaro. Give yourself some time, and you’ll likely start to see improvements in your hair’s health and growth.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you’re experiencing hair loss while taking Mounjaro, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if this is a side effect of the medication or due to other underlying factors. Remember to consult your doctor if you experience any other symptoms such as:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Allergic reactions or skin rashes
Monitoring and Managing Side Effects
Your healthcare provider may closely monitor your treatment progress with Mounjaro, paying attention to any side effects you may experience. It’s essential to:
- Keep track of all side effects you encounter.
- Document the severity and frequency of the symptoms.
- Share this information with your healthcare provider to help them make any possible adjustments to your medication or dosage.
Adjustments could include tapering off Mounjaro or switching to a different medication if necessary.
Importance of Reporting Hair Loss
Although hair loss may not be listed as a common side effect for Mounjaro, it is still essential to report it to your healthcare provider. If it turns out to be an adverse effect specific to you, your healthcare provider may:
- Advise you on ways to minimize hair shedding, such as gentle hair care techniques or specialized shampoos.
- Refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment if the hair loss appears to be unrelated to Mounjaro or if the hair loss is severe.
To Sum It Up
It’s important to consider various factors that may impact your health. Mounjaro is a medication primarily used for weight loss and is known to have various benefits in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, it’s always good to be aware of any potential side effects.
Mounjaro has not been directly linked to hair loss as a side effect. One study found that the adverse effects were mainly mild to moderate nausea and diarrhea linked from sciencedirect.com. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to medications.
To make sure you have a good experience when using Mounjaro, you should discuss it with a healthcare professional. Your doctor can give you advice based on your personal situation, including your health history and possible concerns. They can also dispel your fears about certain potential adverse reactions like hair loss.
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