Latest issue · April 2026
Beyond the Scale: The Visible and Hidden Effects of Rapid Weight Loss
GLP-1 medications help many patients lose meaningful weight. Here is how to protect your muscle, skin and hair while you do.
- Rapid weight loss on GLP-1 medications can bring predictable side effects, including hair shedding, muscle loss, facial volume loss and loose skin.
- They happen because the body can lose weight faster than its cells adapt, which puts hair follicles, muscle fibers and collagen under stress.
- Many of these effects can be prevented or treated, starting with lab testing and a plan for hair, muscle, skin, mood and the pelvic floor.
