Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?

Mounjaro is a weight loss medication that has been gaining popularity nationwide. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, it also serves as a valuable aid in weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing properties.

A recent trial demonstrated the effectiveness of the drug as a weight-loss aid, with participants losing up to 22.5% of their body weight on the 15mg dosage[1]. However, during the same trial, the participants experienced side effects, one of which was hair loss, affecting 5.71% of the participants. So, if you’re using Mounjaro and are concerned about hair loss, read on.

5 Key Takeaways: Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?

• Some people on Mounjaro may notice hair loss.
  Approximately 5% of individuals taking Mounjaro in a recent study reported experiencing some hair thinning or shedding, particularly at higher doses. Most people did not have this side effect.
• It’s not always clear if Mounjaro is the cause.
  Hair loss may be linked to rapid weight loss, inadequate nutrition, or simply a coincidence. Some people may already be more likely to have hair loss for other reasons.
• Other health conditions can cause hair loss.
  Conditions such as male or female pattern baldness and alopecia areata can cause hair thinning, even if you’re not taking Mounjaro. These are common and can happen at any time.
• Eating well can help protect your hair.
  Ensure your diet includes a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Nutrient deficiencies can make hair loss worse, so eating a balanced diet is important if you’re losing weight.
• If you notice hair loss, talk to a healthcare professional.
  Don’t stop or change Mounjaro on your own. At Courier Pharmacy, we offer compounded hair loss solutions that can slow and even restore hair growth. Please contact us for more information.

Mounjaro and hair loss

There can be many reasons you are not losing weight on Mounjaro, ranging from health and lifestyle to the dosage you are currently taking. In this blog, we will go over all the possible reasons you may be having trouble with the weight loss drug and how to overcome them to meet your goals.

So does Mounjaro cause hair loss? Before you throw your Mounjaro pens in the bin, let’s have a deeper look at the study. The SURMOUNT-1 trial showed the following [1]:

	Placebo	Tirzepatide 5mg	Tirzepatide 10mg	Tirzepatide 15mg
Participants	643	630	636	630
Alopecia events	6	33	31	36
Risk	0.93%	5.08%	4.87%	5.71%

This indicates that 0.93% of people who received the placebo experienced hair loss, while approximately 5% of the participants reported some form of hair loss. Participants taking the Mounjaro 15mg dosage experienced the most hair loss, with 5.71% being affected by alopecia.

5% of people on Mounjaro experience hair loss

The study reveals that approximately 5% of participants experienced alopecia or hair loss; however, the results are not conclusive.

There is still dispute as to whether this was a mere coincidence; some of these people may have been susceptible to hair loss. Additionally, it is disputed whether the hair loss was caused by Mounjaro or resulted from nutrient depletion due to the drastic weight loss.

Whether you experience hair loss while on Mounjaro depends on various factors, many of which are discussed below.

Other causes of hair loss while on Mounjaro

Not all the hair loss that can occur during the treatment will be a result of the medication.

Conditions such as androgenic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, and alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease, are fairly common and can occur during treatment, regardless of the specific treatment.

If you notice thinning while on treatment, please get in touch with Courier Pharmacy for a consultation, and we will create a personalised treatment to help combat hair loss.

What is androgenic alopecia?

Androgenetic alopecia, commonly referred to as male or female pattern baldness. It is the most common form of hair thinning and loss, affecting up to 80% of men and up to 50% of women by the age of 70 [2].

It is caused by hair follicles minaturising and thus making hair progressively thinner. Some people are more genetically predisposed to this condition than others [3].

If left untreated, androgenic alopecia can lead to significant hair thinning or complete baldness, which can impact self-esteem and quality of life.

Androgenetic alopecia usually presents itself as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, whereas in women it commonly manifests as a widening of the central parting [4].

What causes androgenic alopecia?

Androgenic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, is caused by the action of the hormone dihydrotestosterone(DHT) on the hair follicle.

DHT is made in the body after the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase on testosterone.

Dihydrotestoterone or DHT binds to hair follicles and disrupts their regular function, resulting in the hair becoming thinner and eventually causing it to stop growing [5].

Hair follicles shrink over time, resulting in finer and weaker strands. This change in the hair growth cycle can eventually cause it to stop growing altogether.

Understanding 5-alpha reductase enzymes

There are three types of 5-alpha reductase enzymes[6], which are the enzymes responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.

• Type 1- Which is found in the skin and hair follicles
• Type 2- Which is found in the scalp and prostate
• Type 3- Found in actively growing hair follicles

Treatment for androgenic alopecia

Certain medications, such as finasteride [7] and dutasteride [8], block the activity of these enzymes, thus reducing DHT levels and slowing the hair thinning process.

In addition to these 5-alpha reductase enzyme blockers, minoxidil [9] can be taken to encourage hair growth.

At Courier Pharmacy, we can compound your hair loss solutions. For example, you can combine a DHT blocker with minoxidil. Below are a few examples of the combinations that are available:

• Finasteride 0.1% minoxidil 5% hair loss solution
• Finasteride 0.1% minoxidil 10% hair loss solution
• Dutasteride 01.% minoxidil 5% hair loss solution

What is alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition which causes sudden patches of hair loss [10]. This occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden hair loss.

The severity of the condition can range from small patches of hair loss to complete baldness, and even to the loss of all body hair (also known as alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis).

The cause of this condition is unknown; however, it is believed that genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, such as stress, contribute to the hair loss.

Treatment for alopecia areata

This condition is treated by suppressing immune activity or stimulating hair regrowth. Corticosteroids, minoxidil and immunotherapy have been used to treat the condition [11].

JAK inhibitors in alopecia areata

Janus Kinase inhibitors have been developed and show promise in promoting hair regrowth by modulating immune pathways.

They are a type of medicine that blocks enzymes called Janus kinases (JAKs). These enzymes play a key role in sending signals inside cells that affect the immune system and inflammation. By blocking JAK enzymes, these medications can help reduce inflammation and abnormal immune activity [11].

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is a fat-loss drug that is sweeping the nation. It is a weekly injection containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, which works by suppressing appetite, making it easier to adhere to a diet [12].

Mounjaro was developed by Eli Lily, a US-based pharmaceutical company, and was approved for weight loss in the UK by the MHRA in November 2023 [13].

Mounjaro is only licensed for adults with a BMI > 30 (obese) or a BMI >27 and who have a weight-related health condition such as diabetes.

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro’s active ingredient (Tirzepatide) helps you lose weight by reducing your appetite. Not only does it do this, but it also leaves you feeling full for longer and curbs cravings to prevent binging.

Tirzepatide is a unique combination of two peptides that mimics two enzymes found in the gut: glucagonlike peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) [14].

Scientists have found that combining these two peptides results in more significant weight loss [15].

How effective is Mounjaro?

Clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of Mounjaro as a weight loss drug.

One particular study, the SURMOUNT 1 trial, found that over the course of 72 weeks, participants, on average, lost around 22.5% of their starting weight when taking Mounjaro 15mg. The study also found that around 90% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight [1].

The table below shows a summary of the study mentioned above:

Mounjaro weight loss table

Week	Tirzepatide (5mg)	Tirzepatide(10mg)	Tirzepatide (15mg)	Placebo
0	105 kg	105 kg	105 kg	105 kg
4	101 kg	100.5 kg	100 kg	104.5 kg
8	96.5 kg	95.5 kg	95 kg	104 kg
12	93.5 kg	91.5 kg	90 kg	103.5 kg
16	91.5 kg	89 kg	87 kg	103 kg
24	90 kg	86 kg	84.5 kg	102.5 kg
36	89.3 kg	84.5 kg	83 kg	102.4 kg
48	89 kg	83.5 kg	82 kg	102.4 kg
72	88.6 kg	82.6 kg	81.2 kg	102.4 kg

Studies show that the highest dose of Mounjaro 15mg per week, can effectively support weight loss of up to 22.5% of an individual’s body weight [1].

Total weight loss after 72 weeks with Mounjaro

• Mounjaro 5mg: 16.4 kg
• Mounjaro 10mg: 22.4 kg
• Mounjaro 15mg: 23.8 kg
• Placebo: 2.6 kg

What doses of Mounjaro are available?

Mounjaro is available in the following dosages:

• Mounjaro 2.5mg
• Mounjaro 5mg
• Mounjaro 7.5mg
• Mounjaro 10mg
• Mounjaro 12.5mg
• Mounjaro 15mg

Mounjaro must be taken once a week as a subcutaneous injection, in either the stomach, thigh or upper arm.

Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?

Mounjaro is a relatively new drug, so further research will be necessary to understand its potential impact on hair loss fully. Results from a recent study indicate that approximately 5% of individuals who took Mounjaro experienced some form of hair loss.

As a result, Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, has stated that hair loss is a potential side effect when the medication is taken for weight loss. It is classified as a “common” side effect and can affect one out of ten people [16].

The mechanism by which Mounjaro can cause hair loss is not yet understood; however, it is speculated that the drug may affect your hormones or metabolism, which can then damage your hair follicles.

To learn more about the side effects of Mounjaro, please read our blog, ‘Mounjaro Side Effects’.

How vitamins and minerals affect hair loss

Vitamins and minerals are essential for cell growth and function, and deficiencies can potentially lead to hair loss [17]. Therefore, it is important to address any nutritional deficiencies if you are worried about hair loss.

Vitamin D and iron deficiencies

Two fairly common forms of hair loss, androgenic alopecia and telogen effluvium, have been linked to low vitamin D levels [18]. Hence, taking a good vitamin D3 supplement can help with the hair loss caused by these conditions.

Iron deficiency has also been linked to hair loss [19], particularly among women. To increase iron absorption, it is recommended to take vitamin C [20].

There’s no firm evidence from large studies that taking extra zinc, folic acid, folate, or vitamin B12 will help with hair loss. There also isn’t enough proof that vitamin E or biotin can treat any hair loss. On the other hand, taking too much vitamin A or selenium might actually cause hair loss, but more research is needed to know precisely how selenium affects your hair [21].

Can Mounjaro prevent hair loss?

Type 2 diabetes (T2D), a condition marked by elevated blood sugar levels and other complications such as heart disease and impaired circulation, can cause early vascular damage that can be seen in hair follicles [22].

 This damage may even occur before T2D is fully diagnosed, particularly in individuals with underlying metabolic issues.

Hair loss, especially on the legs, has been linked to poor blood flow and insulin resistance, suggesting that hair follicles may serve as a non-invasive, early indicator of type 2 diabetes risk.

Hair loss in type 2 diabetics

Research shows African American women with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are over 60% more likely to suffer from severe central scalp hair loss, especially if they have been diabetic for over a decade or had the condition before the age of 50 [23].

These findings suggest the need to screen for both conditions early, as diabetes can lead to hair loss, and hair loss can be an indicator of type 2 diabetes. Further study is required to confirm the link between the conditions and whether managing type 2 diabetes can reduce the risk and severity of hair loss.

Mounjaro and PCOS and hair loss

PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition attributed to excessive male hormones (androgens) and weight gain.

This condition is also a contributing factor to Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL). Studies have shown that roughly 28% of women with PCOS suffer from FPHL, whereas only 8.8% of women without PCOS suffer from this condition [24].

The link between PCOS and hair loss highlights the importance of managing your weight and ensuring your hormones remain balanced to prevent hair loss.

Additionally, when taking metformin, a PCOS treatment medication, in combination with Mounjaro, results have shown a significant increase in weight loss. Women taking the combined treatment lost an average of 8.65 kg, compared to 1.09 kg with just metformin [25].

Losing weight not only alleviates the metabolic symptoms of PCOS but may also treat the hair loss attributed to the condition.

Obesity and hair loss

Having a high BMI and being considered obese has been associated with more severe cases of alopecia in men who suffer from androgenetic alopecia [26].

Having a high BMI and carrying a lot of excess weight has also been linked to more extreme cases of hair thinning in women suffering from PCOS.

By losing weight with Mounjaro, you potentially prevent androgenic alopecia in men and women, and can alleviate PCOS symptoms such as irregular periods and hair loss. However, further research is needed on the topic before Mounjaro can be considered an effective treatment for the two conditions.

Smoking and hair loss

Smoking has been linked to hair loss, as it constricts blood vessels, disrupting blood flow to hair follicles and depriving them of oxygen and nutrients. Since hair is constantly growing, any disruption to its nutrient supply is bound to affect its growth.

Studies have shown that men who have smoked are almost twice as likely to suffer from male pattern baldness compared to those who have never smoked [3].

Another study comparing the frequency with which one smokes to their risk of hair loss showed that if you smoke 10 or more cigarettes a day, you are more likely to develop androgenic alopecia than someone who smokes 10 or fewer cigarettes daily [27].

Reducing hair loss while taking Mounjaro

If you are suffering from hair loss while on Mounjaro , there are a few things you can try to combat the hair loss and encourage regrowth:

• Make sure you have a healthy and balanced diet containing all the vitamins and minerals needed to promote hair health.
• Increase your protein intake.
• Supplement with vitamin D3 and K2- this applies to everyone in the UK because of the lack of year-round sunshine.
• Stop or reduce smoking.
• Consider supplementing with energy-producing supplements like coenzyme Q10 and the B vitamins.
• Try the compounded buccal Courier Pharmacy coenzyme Q10 film if you are not getting the benefits from capsules.
• Begin treatment with minoxidil, along with either finasteride or dutasteride. You can only purchase these compounded medicines after completing the hair loss consultation.

Summary

• About 5% of people using Mounjaro may experience some hair loss, according to the SURMOUNT trial.
• You can help prevent hair loss by eating a balanced diet with enough vitamins, minerals, and protein.
• Hair is always growing, so your body needs a steady supply of nutrients to keep it healthy.
• Because Mounjaro can make you feel less hungry, it’s important to eat healthy foods still and not skip meals.
• Keeping your diet balanced will help protect your hair and your overall health while taking Mounjaro.

How to get Mounjaro from Courier Pharmacy

• Fill out a simple online form
  Answer a few questions online so the team can check if Mounjaro is right and safe for you.
• Upload a recent photo
  Send a clear, up-to-date photo of yourself. This helps confirm your identity.
• Show proof for higher doses
  If you need a higher dose, you’ll need to show proof (like photos of your old pens or a note from your doctor) that you’ve safely reached that level.
• Share your GP’s details
  Give your doctor’s contact info so the pharmacy can keep your GP updated about your treatment.
• Join a video call
  Have a video chat with the clinical team to ensure you’re using Mounjaro safely and to address any questions you may have.

Why choose Courier Pharmacy?

• Competitive prices on Mounjaro pens
• Free needles, sharps bin, and alcohol wipes
• Free weight-loss coaching and support
• Free consultations, from your first chat to ongoing help
• Extra medicine if you have side effects that are hard to manage
• A supportive coaching program to keep you motivated

Courier Pharmacy is here to help you every step of the way on your weight loss journey.

This information is for general guidance only. For advice on your health, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

References

1. ClinicalTrials.gov (2024) A study of tirzepatide (LY3298176) in participants with obesity or overweight and type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2). Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04184622?term=NCT04184622&rank=1 (Accessed: 22 June 2025).
2. York, K., Meah, N., Bhoyrul, B., & Sinclair, R. (2020). A review of the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, 21(5), 603–612.
3. Medical Mojo (2024) Does Mounjaro cause hair loss? Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/does-mounjaro-cause-hair-loss/#h-what-is-androgenetic-alopecia (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
4. Nestor, M.S., Ablon, G., Gade, A., Han, H. and Fischer, D.L., 2021. Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: Efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 20(12), pp.3759-3781.
5. Cuevas-Diaz Duran, R., Martinez-Ledesma, E., Garcia-Garcia, M., Bajo Gauzin, D., Sarro-Ramírez, A., Gonzalez-Carrillo, C., Rodríguez-Sardin, D., Fuentes, A. and Cardenas-Lopez, A., 2024. The biology and genomics of human hair follicles: a focus on androgenetic alopecia. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(5), p.2542.
6. Yamana, K., Labrie, F. and Luu-The, V. (2010). Human type 3 5?-reductase is expressed in peripheral tissues at higher levels than types 1 and 2, and its activity is potently inhibited by finasteride and dutasteride. Hormone Molecular Biology and Clinical Investigation, 2(3). doi:https://doi.org/10.1515/hmbci.2010.035.
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8. Medical Mojo (2024) What is dutasteride? Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/what-is-dutasteride/ (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
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10. National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) (n.d.) Alopecia areata. Available at: https://www.naaf.org/alopecia-areata/ (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
11. American Academy of Dermatology Association (2023). Alopecia Areata: Diagnosis and Treatment. [online] www.aad.org. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia/treatment.
12. Courier Pharmacy. (2024) Can you drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro? Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/can-you-drink-alcohol-while-taking-mounjaro-2/#h-what-is-mounjaro (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
13. MHRA, 2023. MHRA authorises diabetes drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management and weight loss. GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-authorises-diabetes-drug-mounjaro-tirzepatide-for-weight-management-and-weight-loss
14. Courier Pharmacy (2024). Mounjaro side effects: what to expect and how to manage them. Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/mounjaro-side-effects-2/ (Accessed: 22 June 2025).
15. Finan, B., Ma, T., Ottaway, N., Müller, T.D., Habegger, K.M., Heppner, K.M., Kirchner, H., Holland, J., Hembree, J., Raver, C. and Lockie, S.H., 2013. Unimolecular dual incretins maximise metabolic benefits in rodents, monkeys, and humans. Science translational medicine, 5(209), pp.209ra151-209ra151.
16. EMC (2023) Mounjaro 2.5 mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen – Patient Information Leaflet. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.15481.pdf (Accessed: 15 July 2025).
17. Almohanna, H.M., Ahmed, A.A., Tsatalis, J.P. and Tosti, A. (2019). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatology and therapy, [online] 9(1), pp.51–70. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6.
18. Saini, K. and Mysore, V. (2021). Role of vitamin D in hair loss: A short review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20(11), pp.3407–3414. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14421.
19. MOHAMMED, Z.K., MALIH, Z.M., ABBOOD, Y.H. and HUSSEIN, B.J., 2024. CORRELATION OF SOME BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS WITH HAIR LOSS IN ALOPECIA. Journal of Bioscience and Applied Research, 10(3), pp.552-559.
20. DeLoughery, T.G., Jackson, C.S., Ko, C.W. and Rockey, D.C., 2024. AGA clinical practice update on management of iron deficiency anemia: expert review. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 22(8), pp.1575-1583.
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22. Miranda, J.J., Taype-Rondan, A., Tapia, J.C., Gastanadui-Gonzalez, M.G. and Roman-Carpio, R. (2016). HAIR FOLLICLE CHARACTERISTICS AS EARLY MARKER OF TYPE 2 DIABETES. Medical hypotheses, [online] 95, pp.39–44. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2016.08.009.
23. Coogan, P.F., Bethea, T.N., Cosier, Y.C., Bertrand, K.A., Palmer, J.R., Rosenberg, L. and Lenzy, Y. (2019). Association of type 2 diabetes with central-scalp hair loss in a large cohort study of African American women. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, [online] 5(4), pp.261–266. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2019.05.010.
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26. Yang, C.C., Hsieh, F.N., Lin, L.Y., Hsu, C.K., Sheu, H.M. and Chen, W., 2014. Higher body mass index is associated with greater severity of alopecia in men with male-pattern androgenetic alopecia in Taiwan: a cross-sectional study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 70(2), pp.297-302. Gupta, A.K., Bamimore, M.A. and Talukder, M. (2024). A meta?analysis study on the association between smoking and male pattern hair loss. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 23(4), pp.1446–1451. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16132.
27. Gupta, A.K., Bamimore, M.A. and Talukder, M. (2024). A meta?analysis study on the association between smoking and male pattern hair loss. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 23(4), pp.1446–1451. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.16132.