The Effects of Ozempic on Romantic Relationships

The Complex Relationship Between GLP-1 Medications and Libido

Beyond their well-documented benefits in treating diabetes and aiding weight loss, ‘GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide“>Ozempic[/highlight], Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound may also have a profound impact on libido.’ However, the reasons behind this phenomenon are as intricate as desire itself.

Weight Loss and Libido: A Complicated Connection

Shane Desmond, who has been taking Wegovy since January, has noticed significant improvements in his sex life, including increased libido. At 51, he typically experienced low libido during the winter months, but now finds himself in the mood almost daily. His husband has also reported ‘definite improvements’ in their sex life.

Millions of Americans are now taking GLP-1 medications to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs not only help people lose weight but have also been shown to improve heart health, reduce the risk of kidney disease, and treat sleep apnea. Research suggests that obesity can negatively affect sexual health in people of all genders.

The Impact of Obesity on Sexual Health

David B. Sarwer, director of the Center for Obesity Research and Education at Temple University’s College of Public Health, has studied the effects of obesity on sexual function. He notes that there is a relationship between the degree of obesity and the degree of dysfunction, or difficulty experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity.

Sarwer points out that comorbidities associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, can also cause sexual dysfunction. These conditions can damage blood vessels and create blood flow problems, leading to vaginal dryness or erectile dysfunction. Many medications used to treat these comorbidities can also lower sex drive.

The Role of GLP-1 Medications in Improving Libido

One study conducted by Sarwer followed 106 women who lost an average of 33 percent of their body weight after undergoing bariatric surgery. Two years after surgery, women reported significant improvements in desire, arousal, and overall sexual satisfaction. The participants also experienced changes in hormone levels, including lower testosterone and estradiol.

Petar Bajic, director of men’s health at the Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Urological Institute, notes that sleep is often an overlooked factor in erectile dysfunction. Testosterone is made during deep sleep, and low testosterone can hinder sex drive. People who are heavier are more likely to have sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

The Potential Risks of GLP-1 Medications on Libido

While GLP-1 medications may improve libido for some individuals, they may also have negative effects for others. A study published in May 2024 found that men with obesity who were taking semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, were at a slightly higher risk of erectile dysfunction than men with obesity who weren’t taking the drug.

Hannah, who asked to go by her first name only, experienced a dramatic drop in libido after starting on Wegovy 10 months ago. She wonders if her low libido is related to the fact that GLP-1s act on the brain, interacting with receptors to tamp down the desire for food and potentially affecting the brain’s reward system more broadly.

Conclusion

The relationship between GLP-1 medications and libido is complex and multifaceted. While these medications may improve libido for some individuals, they can also have negative effects for others. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms behind this phenomenon and to unravel how GLP-1s might affect sexual function and desire.