Weight Loss, GLP-1 and Hair Loss
Town & Country Compounding supports your weight management and hair loss needs with unique topical and oral formulations.
The relationship between GLP-1 and hair loss
As the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®) becomes more common for weight loss, patients and prescribers are starting to notice a surprising side effect: hair loss. While the potential benefits of these medications have grown in popularity, particularly in helping patients shed significant amounts of weight, this unintended consequence can be emotionally distressing if it happens to you.
At Town & Country Compounding, we regularly hear from patients and providers concerned about sudden hair shedding a few months into GLP-1 therapy. In this blog, we explain why it happens, when it typically begins, and how custom compounded solutions may help support regrowth. Proactive measures may be helpful!
Why does hair loss happen on GLP-1s?
Hair loss linked to GLP-1 medications is most often caused by a condition called telogen effluvium (TE). TE occurs when a physical stressor — like rapid weight loss — pushes hair follicles prematurely into the resting phase of the hair cycle. A few months later, those hairs begin to shed all at once.
Key causes:
- Rapid weight loss (a major trigger)
- Caloric and nutrient deficiencies
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Stress (physical or emotional)
The good news? This type of hair loss is usually temporary and reversible with proper support and time.
When does hair loss start?
Most patients report increased shedding about 3 to 6 months after beginning GLP-1s such as semaglutide or tirzepatide. This timeline aligns with the natural hair growth cycle and when the effects of telogen effluvium typically become noticeable.
Patient stories: Real people, real concerns
From Reddit Communities:
- “My hair was coming out in clumps” – A Redditor lost 40 pounds over 5 months on semaglutide and experienced sudden hair loss at month 4.
- “I didn’t change my diet that much, but the hair loss is real” – A man lost 35 pounds on tirzepatide and saw shedding despite steady calorie intake.
- “I’m scared to brush my hair now” – Another user saw alarming thinning after 6 months on compounded semaglutide.
- “I thought I escaped it, then month 5 hit” – Many users note the delayed nature of telogen effluvium and feel blindsided.
These stories help normalize the experience and raise awareness that patients are not alone — and there are possible means of addressing hair loss.
How compounded medications may help
At Town & Country Compounding, we offer customized topical and oral compounded formulations to help reduce shedding and support regrowth.
Topical Options:
- Minoxidil + Finasteride: Reduces DHT and stimulates follicles
- Minoxidil + Tretinoin + Caffeine: Enhances absorption and scalp circulation
- Minoxidil + Biotin + Vitamin B complex: Combines growth stimulation with nutritional support
Oral Options:
- Low-dose Oral Minoxidil: A potentially promising off-label alternative for hair regrowth
(read our blog – Low Dose Oral Minoxidil (LDOM) in Hair Loss & Balding)
- Nutritional Support Capsules: Customized with biotin, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and collagen
Contributing factors that may worsen hair loss
Hair loss during GLP-1 therapy may be exacerbated by:
- Iron or zinc deficiency
- Low protein intake
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Vitamin D or biotin deficiency
Female/Male Saliva Profile I, II, III (Saliva Testing Kits)
Know your hormone levels! Easy at-home Saliva Testing Kits are available at Town & Country Compounding.
Hope for GLP-1 and hair loss patients and providers
GLP-1 medications may be life-changing for weight loss and metabolic health, but hair loss is a real and emotional side effect for some patients. Fortunately, this type of hair shedding is often temporary, and compounded therapies may help patients regain their confidence and hair.
All formulations are prepared in our PCAB-accredited compounding lab and tailored to each patient’s needs.
Need help with hair loss formulation ideas? Call or text Town & Country Compounding at 201-447-2020 or visit www.tccompound.com.
You can also find Rx Order Forms and more information under the “Doctors” section of our website.
