Popular weight loss drugs can also affect the following aspects: sexual healthrecent research shows.
in obesity and overweight In men, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs increased total testosterone, optimized hormone levels, and improved erectile function scores, according to a 2025 review published by the National Institutes of Health.
Additional reviews found similar improvements in erectile dysfunction.
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However, not all results are positive. A study of women published in the Sage Journal in June found that the drug’s effects on hormones may lower sex drive.
In a nationally representative study led by the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, approximately 52% of GLP-1 users reported: medicine It had both positive and negative effects on their sex life.
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18% said their sexual desire had increased, and 16% said it had decreased. An additional 16% said their sexual function improved, and 14% said it did not.
Additionally, 16% said they felt more comfortable in their body and 14% said they felt less comfortable.
Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss expert in New York and New Jersey, said it’s difficult to determine whether improved sexual function is an effect of the drug or a benefit from improved self-perception after weight loss.
These results also depend “highly” on patient characteristics, the expert added.
“Individuals with severe obesity “In many cases there is meaningful hormonal improvement, but people with long-standing diabetic neuropathy may have irreversible neurovascular damage,” he told FOX News Digital.
“Importantly, dysfunction is primarily caused by psychosocial factors such as: Human relationship problemsdrug therapy (drug therapy) alone is unlikely to be successful. ”
In his practice, Balazs reported that most of his patients see “both ends” even though they are improving their sex lives.
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Men under 30 were more likely to report decreased libido, which he attributed to the drug’s effect on the central nervous system rather than the underlying cause. health conditionThis is because younger men generally have fewer comorbidities.
According to Balazs, GLP-1 directly contributes to improved sexual function by improving endothelial function (the inner lining of blood vessels), thereby supporting better blood flow.
This function is important for cardiovascular health and can improve cardiovascular health in men. erectile function. For women, it may also increase blood flow in the pelvis, experts say.
Significant weight loss reduces the ability to convert testosterone to estrogen, which helps restore testosterone levels. According to Balazs, this improves libido, energy, and overall sexual function.
GLP-1 also reduces inflammation in the brain, which may improve symptoms. peripheral nerve functionessential for bodily sensations.
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severe obesity Losing weight can also create physical barriers between intimate relationships, as it increases mobility and comfort.
Balazs also noted the psychological burden of obesity and diabetes, which can be alleviated through weight loss therapy. depression and anxietya condition that often contributes to sexual dysfunction.
“Improvement points” physical healthbody composition and self-image may indirectly reduce depression and anxiety and support sexual well-being,” he said.
On the other hand, decreased sexual function while taking GLP-1 drugs may be caused by reward signaling in the brain, Balazs said.
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” [central reward] “This pathway contributes to the pleasure associated with both eating and sexual activity, and its modulation may reduce sexual desire in some patients,” he said.
“Common side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and malaise; psychological adjustment Rapid weight loss can indirectly reduce sexual desire. ”
