WEIGHT-loss jabs can make men lose their hair by triggering baldness genes, scientists warn.
Around 2.5million people in the UK are taking slimming injections such as Mounjaro and Wegovy.
Hundreds have reported thinning on top as a side-effect but the reason has not been scientifically understood.
Now researchers claim the GLP-1 gene targeted by jabs is linked to male pattern baldness.
They studied DNA from nearly 240,000 men in the US, comparing those with pattern baldness genes.
They found ones with naturally high levels of GLP-1 proteins were seven per cent likelier to go bald than those with average amounts.
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This suggests men who use GLP-boosting fat jabs are also at the same increased risk.
Study author Dr Lynn Petukhova of New York University said: “Our study provides the first genetic link between GLP-1 use and an increased risk of male pattern hair loss.
“This association was long suspected but until now not shown scientifically.
“Our findings suggest some men, and possibly women too, could be screened for their risk of hair loss before being prescribed the medications.”
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Weight-loss patients could be given hair regrowth drugs at the same time, she added.
Experts say baldness is also due to nutrient deficiencies from eating less, or biological stress from rapid weight loss.