An expert has provided insights into why GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro might impact your libido and how to discuss this with your partner.
Mounjaro is an FDA-approved medication for treating type 2 diabetes but is sometimes used off-label for weight loss. Other similar GLP-1 drugs are Ozempic and Wegovy.
Individuals using these medications have reported experiencing a decline in their sexual activities.
A couple shared their experience on Good Morning America after Vincent Hsu, a doctor, began taking Mounjaro.
“My sex drive decreased. Our intimacy has been very strong, historically, and when you notice it’s beginning to drop, it is concerning,” he shared.
Explaining why he started the treatment, he said, “At my heaviest, which was after my residency training, I was around 215lb, and I found out I was diabetic.”
Vincent was prescribed Mounjaro to manage his diabetes and improve his overall health.
In addition to managing his condition, Vincent’s weight decreased to 125lb, and he developed a passion for running.
Grace, his wife, commented, “The joke used to be how running usually increases your endorphins and increases your desires, but then I was like ‘Wait a second, you’re running more now but it’s not like it used to be [in the bedroom].”
GLP-1 medications note potential side effects such as nausea, stomach discomfort, and mood fluctuations.
Some studies suggest a potential decrease in libido, while others report no change or even an increase in sexual activity.
Dr. Veronica Johnson, an obesity medicine specialist, addressed possible reasons for these effects.
She stated, “There’s some anti-inflammatory components of GLP-1 that we could possibly see in this setting with patients who have sexual dysfunction, but again I think it’s too soon to say.”
Experts also believe that lifestyle changes accompanying weight loss might influence sexual experiences more than the medication itself.
Dr. Tiffanie Henry, a psychotherapist and relationship coach, told GMA: “Any type of weight changes can absolutely impact the intimate relationship, the sexual relationship, the relationship as a whole.
“A lot of times that is brought about indirectly by changes in our level of confidence, changes in our level of comfort, changes in our level of energy, stamina, desire.”
What can be done to help?
Dr. Henry advises, “Open communication! Letting your partner in on the process, the entire journey.
“If you’re starting something like a new weight loss plan or GLP-1, that your partner is invested in all aspects of that and discuss changes all along that process.”
With guidance from his doctor and Grace’s support, Vincent incorporated weight training alongside running and began gaining muscle.
Adjusting the spacing of his Mounjaro doses was also suggested.
He shared, “I think I’m in a much better spot physically and also the intimacy in our sex life has improved.”
Eli Lilly has been contacted for comment on this matter.