Lately, anti-diabetic medications that help control sugar levels and aid weight loss seem to be a rising trend. But apart from the well-known benefits of losing weight—including improved self-esteem, energy levels, and overall well-being—Dr Vyankatesh Shivane, consultant diabetologist and metabolic physician at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, pointed out a connection with intimacy, too.
“A reduction in weight increases self-confidence, which makes both partners more interested in sex, ultimately improving sexual desire,” Dr Shivane told indianexpress.com.
Does that mean weight loss drugs have a direct impact on intimacy?
While weight loss has been linked to improved intimacy in both males and females, Dr Shivane said some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic (semaglutide) or Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may reduce sexual desire in certain individuals.
“This area requires further research to determine whether these drugs, apart from controlling diabetes and inducing weight loss, also improve sexual dysfunction,” said Dr Shivane.
Dr Madhulika Singh, senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Child, Pune said that the impact of weight loss drugs can also vary depending on the type of drug. “Some medications prescribed by doctors for weight loss, like appetite suppressants, can cause severe side effects like fatigue, mood swings, and decreased libido. This can make intimacy less enjoyable for some couples,” said Dr Singh.
“Drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy can cause severe digestive issues or nausea to some. This can make them feel less confident or uncomfortable during intimate moments,” said Dr Singh.
As such, couples may avoid getting intimate with each other and find it challenging to spend quality time.
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According to Dr Singh, some weight loss drugs may lower testosterone levels in men while others could impact women’s hormonal balance. “Whether these drugs influence testosterone levels in males or estrogen levels in females still needs to be explored further through randomised controlled trials,” mentioned Dr Shivane.
Do you use weight loss drugs? (representative) (Photo: Freepik)
If someone notices a negative impact on their intimacy due to weight loss drugs, they should talk to a doctor, urged Dr Singh.
Dr Singh also emphasised understanding the potential side-effects before taking any weight loss drug. “Don’t take any drugs on your own just because they are advocated on social media,” said Dr Singh.
When the underlying causes (such as uncontrolled diabetes or hormonal imbalances) are addressed — either through better blood sugar control or hormonal treatments for hypogonadism — both males and females experience an increase in libido and improvement in intimacy, said Dr Shivane.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
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