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Review
. 2024 Sep;63(9):1128-1130.
doi: 10.1111/ijd.17246. Epub 2024 May 13.

GLP-1 agonists and hair loss: a call for further investigation

Deesha D Desai #  1   2 , Michelle Sikora #  1   3 , Ambika Nohria  1 , Lindsey Bordone  4 , Avrom S Caplan  1 , Jerry Shapiro  1 , Kristen I Lo Sicco  1
Affiliations
Review

GLP-1 agonists and hair loss: a call for further investigation

Deesha D Desai et al. Int J Dermatol. 2024 Sep.

Abstract

The widespread adoption of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity has sparked investigations into their impact on hair health, an area characterized by diverse conjectures. Some propose potential risks such as disrupted hair growth cycles or premature androgenetic alopecia (AGA), while others suggest benefits linked to improved insulin sensitivity and enhanced scalp blood circulation. However, despite these theoretical underpinnings, clinical evidence linking GLP-1 agonists to hair loss remains sparse. The necessity for vigilant patient monitoring and collaborative efforts cannot be overstressed in comprehensively addressing any potential consequences of GLP-1 agonist therapy on hair health as their use continues to expand.

Keywords: alopecia; glucagon‐like peptide‐1; microvasculature; telogen effluvium; type 2 diabetes mellitus.

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References

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