Hone Asks the Experts: Can Phentermine Cause Hair Loss?

Before the hype of Ozempic and Wegovy, there was a time where Phentermine was known for weight loss and in fact accounted for three out of four weight-loss drug prescriptions (according to this study). And while it can help with weight loss, one common complaint was that phentermine might also be causing hair loss.  However, was this a fact and even if so, was it worth the weight?

Research overall says Phentermine (also commonly used under brand names like Adipex and Suprenza) does not cause Hair Loss but some reports note that almost 2 percent of participants did report hair loss as a side effect.  This though may be due to the appetite suppression one gets from the medicine, as Dr. Green notes in the Hone Health article this week. For example, when you hold back on food, you miss out on vital nutrients for healthy hair, like, iron, zinc, and vitamins  A, C and D.  “The rapid weight loss and associated nutrient deficiency can lead to hair loss and thinning,” explains Michele Green, M.D. in the article.  Increased stress can also contribute to some hair shedding and thinning, so while it may not be a direct side effect, it can certainly be an indirect one for some patients.

Find out more at Can Phentermine Cause Hair Loss? Here’s What Experts Think