Some users of Ozempic have reported a decline in their interest in masturbation, raising questions among experts about the effect of weight-loss drugs on libido.
Originally approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for managing blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is not officially sanctioned as a weight loss medication. However, its active ingredient, semaglutide, is known to help control appetite, making users feel fuller for longer periods and potentially aiding in weight loss.
Despite its benefits, the GLP-1 medication is associated with several side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Some have also reported experiencing what’s being termed ‘Ozempic masturbation’ – but what does this mean, and how can it be addressed?
Current clinical studies on the effects of Ozempic on sex drive are still in their infancy.
Nonetheless, Ro, an American telehealth company, has indicated that some research points to a possible correlation between the drug and fluctuations in libido.
While scientific evidence is sparse, some individuals have reported erectile dysfunction when using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic.
According to Revitalize Weight Loss, this may be due to the stress rapid weight loss places on the body, which can lead to side effects such as erectile dysfunction.
Others have noted a significant decrease in their sexual desire, including a reduced interest in pornography and masturbation, since starting this off-label weight-loss drug.
One user on Reddit shared that prior to using weight-loss medications, they engaged with porn and masturbated about five to six times weekly.
“Before semaglutide I used porn every day and was addicted. Now I use it maybe 5 min a week and don’t find it that interesting.”
The same user elaborated: “After Ozempic, I almost [have quit] porn. My interest in normal sex is the same, but maybe my libido is a bit lower (but I like that),” they noted.
Another individual shared: “Mine is down, but now I just don’t masturbate but still have the same amount of sex.”
Additional social media users remarked that their ‘dopamine reward system is substantially changed’, claiming that similar to their disinterest in porn, food and shopping have also become less appealing.
Eric Smith, a bariatric surgeon and medical director of POP Recovery Systems, suggests that those using medications like Ozempic might experience temporary changes in their libido.
He explained to Ro: “For most patients, symptoms improve within a few weeks as their body adjusts to the medication. Proper dose regulation often helps resolve these issues.”
For those who suddenly find themselves with a reduced desire to masturbate, lifestyle adjustments are recommended.
Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep are advised as these healthy habits can ‘increase the stimulation of the dopamine receptors and improve mood and sex drive’, according to Dr. Michael Tahery, a urogynecologist.
Discussing feelings openly with partners is also recommended for those experiencing ‘Ozempic masturbation’ issues.
Psychological elements like stress and depression might also contribute to the decreased interest in self-pleasure.
Research has linked anxiety disorders with reduced sexual desire, difficulties in reaching orgasm, and sexual pain.
In response to inquiries, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, informed UNILAD: “Patient safety is of the utmost importance to Novo Nordisk, and we recommend patients take these medications for their approved indications and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
“We continuously collect safety data on our marketed GLP-1 medicines and work closely with the authorities to ensure patient safety. As part of this work, we continue to monitor reports of adverse drug reactions through routine pharmacovigilance.
“We recommend that any patient experiencing side effects while taking GLP-1 RA medicines, including Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide injection), report them to their healthcare provider and via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. “