Ozempic and Sex Drive: Does This GLP-1 Drug Affect Sexual Function?

Ozempic, a GLP-1 agonist initially approved for type 2 diabetes in 2017, has quickly become a go-to for weight loss solutions. The injectable was first introduced in 2017 and was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Despite its effectiveness, some users report decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, raising questions about its broader effects.

Let’s take a closer look at Ozempic and whether it may be causing a loss in weight but also your libido.

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Ozempic, one of the newest members of the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide -1) receptor agonists class of medications, looks and acts like the GLP-1 hormone, boosting insulin production and signaling fullness in the brain, thus aiding in diabetes and weight management.

When you eat, your body produces GLP-1, which signals insulin release, which then moves the blood sugar (glucose) from your food to your cells. Type 2 diabetes patients often have trouble producing enough insulin in their body and that leaves them with high blood sugar, which could spell a lot of trouble in their nervous, immune, and circulatory system. In fact, semaglutide also shows many cardiovascular benefits.

However, there are also receptors in the brain that respond to semaglutide or Ozempic.

If Ozempic signals insulin production to your stomach, it signals fullness to your brain.

This is where the effectiveness of Ozempic or Wegovy as weight management drugs comes in, where many takers of the injectable report a decreased appetite. Many even experience that they have a lower desire for food and alcohol.

Ozempic and Wegovy are the same drug, carrying different doses of semaglutide — the key GLP-1 agonist receptor. However, they are FDA-approved for two different purposes. In 2017, Ozempic was approved as an FDA treatment for T2DM patients. On the other hand, by 2021, it was then approved, labeled Wegovy, as a weight loss injectable.

Both drugs are being scrutinized for causing erectile dysfunction and a lower sex drive.

A recent study explored the risk of erectile dysfunction and hypogonadism in non-diabetic males using Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss.

Erectile dysfunction is when men face challenges achieving an erection, while hypogonadism is a condition marked by insufficient testosterone production, often indicated by a reduced sex drive, which can sometimes lead to erectile dysfunction over time.

With 3,532 participants aged 18 to 50, the findings showed that only 1.5% of the subjects had an increased risk of erectile dysfunction and hypogonadism, highlighting the need for further investigation into the potential side effects of these drugs, especially regarding dosage and duration of use.

Like all new medications, Ozempic and Wegovy’s rapid distribution has introduced various side effects, both expected and unexpected. There’s a significant gap in understanding if these drugs directly cause erectile dysfunction.

Key questions remain:

• Are diabetic or non-diabetic individuals more at risk?
• Does the dosage or duration of use influence the risk?

Additionally, it’s important to note that diabetes, particularly when poorly managed, can also impact sexual drive.

RELATED: OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY, WEIGHT LOSS DRUGS THAT MAY HELP MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

As Ozempic’s usage expands, more side effects may emerge over time. Currently, there aren’t enough large clinical trials to study the possible side effects of Ozempic. But there are a few that have been spotted in recent years.

Ozempic reports some common side effects of taking the drug, like:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

Adjusting your eating habits can help mitigate these issues, as Ozempic works by making you feel fuller faster. If you overeat, your body might reject the food and cause some side effects.

Most side effects diminish as your body adjusts to the medication, and not every side effect you experience is worth a trip to the doctor’s office.

Before starting Ozempic, discuss your current medications and any history of cancer or thyroid cancer with your doctor to assess potential risks. While many side effects of Ozempic may subside as your body adjusts, severe symptoms should prompt a consultation with your healthcare provider.

If you notice a decrease in sex drive after taking Ozempic, it’s important to consult your doctor. Such changes can affect quality of life and strike your self-confidence.

Discussing your concerns openly with your healthcare provider is the best first step, as they can offer guidance and alternative options. While stopping semaglutide may lead to weight regain for some, weighing the benefits against the risks is essential, especially for managing diabetes. Your doctor can provide the best advice tailored to your situation.

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