Introduction

If you’re taking Zepbound for weight loss and noticing more strands in your brush or shower drain, you’re not alone. While not a direct side effect of the medication, hair shedding can happen during significant weight loss—and it’s understandably concerning.

In this blog, we’ll explain the connection between Zepbound and hair loss, what’s normal, what’s not, and how to protect your hair while shedding pounds.

Does Zepbound Cause Hair Loss?

Zepbound itself does not directly cause hair loss.

However, rapid or significant weight loss—especially over a short period—can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium.

This is a temporary form of hair shedding caused by:

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Hormonal changes

• Physical stress on the body

• Calorie restriction or sudden weight loss

Learn more: Zepbound Side Effects – What to Expect

What Is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a non-scarring, temporary form of hair shedding. It usually starts 2–4 months after a triggering event, such as:

• Surgery

• Major illness

• Crash dieting

• Rapid weight loss (10+ lbs/month)

The good news: hair usually regrows within 3–6 months once your body stabilizes.

Why Hair Loss May Happen on Zepbound

Zepbound helps people lose 15–22.5% of their body weight, often quickly. While that’s great for health, the sudden drop in calories or nutrients can temporarily divert energy away from non-essential functions—like hair growth.

Contributing Factor	Why It Matters
Low protein intake	Hair is made of keratin (a protein)
Iron or biotin deficiency	Can affect hair follicle strength
Hormonal shifts	Weight loss alters hormones like estrogen/testosterone
Calorie restriction	Nutritional stress impacts hair growth cycle

How Common Is It?

Hair shedding is reported in a small percentage of Zepbound users, especially those who:

• Lose weight rapidly

• Eat too little protein

• Skip meals or essential nutrients

• Already had low iron or thyroid issues

What Hair Loss on Zepbound Feels Like

More hair in your brush or on the floor
Thinner ponytail or noticeable shedding during washing
Scalp not visibly balding (no patches or scarring)
No pain or itchiness—just increased shedding

If you notice bald spots, redness, or scalp discomfort, contact your provider—it could be something else (like alopecia areata or thyroid imbalance).

How to Prevent or Minimize Hair Loss on Zepbound

Eat enough protein – Aim for 80–120g/day
Don’t drastically cut calories – Fuel your body with nutrient-dense meals
Take a multivitamin – Especially with iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D
Stay hydrated – Dehydration can increase shedding
Limit stress – Physical and emotional stress can accelerate telogen effluvium

Related: Zepbound Meal Plan – What to Eat for Best Results

Can You Take Supplements?

Yes—with your provider’s approval. Helpful ones may include:

• Biotin (1,000–5,000 mcg)

• Collagen peptides

• Iron (if you’re deficient)

• Zinc

• Vitamin D

Always test your levels before supplementing iron or vitamin D.

When Will Hair Grow Back?

For most people:

• Hair regrowth begins 3–6 months after the shedding stops

• Full recovery may take 6–12 months

• New growth may feel soft, fuzzy, or different in texture at first

Stay consistent with nutrition and stress management—and avoid aggressive styling or harsh treatments in the meantime.

Final Thoughts

Zepbound doesn’t directly cause hair loss—but fast weight loss and poor nutrition can. If you notice increased shedding, don’t panic—with the right support, it’s usually temporary and reversible.

Focus on high-protein meals and supplements if needed
Track changes and talk to your provider if symptoms persist
Be patient—your hair will likely recover as your body stabilizes

Download our Zepbound Hair Health Tracker to monitor shedding, nutrition, and regrowth progress over time.