Associations Between GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Alopecia: A Multi-Center Retrospective Analysis and Public Interest Trends
October 2025
in “
JEADV Clinical Practice
”
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Studysummary This study found that patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists, specifically liraglutide, dulaglutide, and semaglutide, had a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia, while those on exenatide showed increased odds for both androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
This study analyzed data from 393,596 individuals to explore the link between GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and alopecia, finding that those using GLP-1RAs had higher odds of developing androgenetic alopecia (AGA) but not alopecia areata (AA) or telogen effluvium (TE). Specific GLP-1RAs like exenatide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide were linked to increased AGA risk, while semaglutide was associated with AGA but not other types of alopecia. Tirzepatide showed no significant alopecia outcomes. Public interest in the connection between GLP-1RAs and hair loss has risen, as indicated by Google Trends. The study calls for further research and advises clinicians to discuss alopecia risks with patients considering GLP-1RA treatment. Limitations include the inability to isolate patients with pre-existing alopecia and the need for prospective studies.
