Can GLP-1 Medications Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

October 24, 2024

5 mins

Severe obesity can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting nearly every aspect of your health. It can place extra stress on the heart, liver, bones, and in some instances, lead to skin irritation. Men with obesity are also more likely to experience erectile dysfunction (ED).

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to reach, sustain, or maintain a full erection during sexual intercourse. ED can be difficult to discuss, but knowing what’s causing it may help improve other health complications. 

Common causes of erectile dysfunction include diabetes, hypertension, and hormonal imbalances. Obesity is a common cause of erectile dysfunction, and GLP-1 medications may help address both issues.

Although losing weight can help erectile dysfunction in diabetic men, there are rare cases where it can cause erectile dysfunction in men who don’t have diabetes.

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What are GLP-1 Agonists?

GLP-1 agonists are medications prescribed to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes. The GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone is released as food is digested. This class of medication promotes weight loss by reducing blood sugar levels and increasing metabolism so the body feels fuller. Research suggests GLP-1s can increase energy levels while controlling your appetite.

A few popular GLP-1 agonists FDA-approved for weight loss include Wegovy®(semaglutide), Saxenda® (liraglutide), and Zepbound® (tirzepatide).

Do GLP-1 Medications Prevent Erectile Dysfunction?

More research is gradually becoming available on the effects of GLP-1 medications on erectile function in men without diabetes. GLP-1 medications can help with general blood flow and muscle function to improve erectile function. But health experts have not yet confirmed through research what exactly in GLP-1 medications may cause ED in men without diabetes.

How do GLP-1 medications reduce ED in diabetic men?

In men with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 agonists can prevent erectile dysfunction by promoting weight loss. Obesity can potentially lower testosterone levels and libido. One study found that semaglutide can elevate testosterone levels in men with diabetes and obesity, but the same results are not always guaranteed in men who do not have diabetes.

GLP-1 agonists can potentially improve responses in the nervous system — including the nerves in the penis. GLP-1 medications are effective in diabetic men because they target coexisting conditions. 

Other health conditions caused by severe obesity that GLP-1 medications can help treat include:

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Kidney failure

• Insulin resistance

Losing weight can help lower high blood pressure and reduce kidney function complications. In one study, semaglutide was found to be safe for people with kidney disease and other cardiovascular conditions. However, more research is needed to understand how effectively GLP-1 medications protect cardiovascular health beyond their role in weight loss.

Men without diabetes can lose weight on these medications, but they may not see the same increase in testosterone levels.

How do GLP-1 medications reduce ED in non-diabetic men?

A study involving non-diabetic men taking semaglutide showed that they were about 1.5% more likely to experience erectile dysfunction as a side effect compared to diabetic men. Participants were also more likely to experience testosterone deficiency.

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What are the Risks of GLP-1 Medications?

Although semaglutide and other GLP-1 agonists can improve erectile function, they also alter hormones to better control food cravings. In some cases, erectile dysfunction can be caused by hormonal changes. This can cause a hormonal imbalance in men who do not have diabetes. In some instances, hormonal imbalances can affect sexual arousal.

In rare cases, GLP-1 agonists may trigger pancreatitis, which causes inflammation of the pancreas. Medications like Ozempic® (semaglutide) may raise your risk of medullary thyroid cancer, particularly if you have a family history of the disease.

Taking GLP-1 medications can change the relationship a person has with food. While on the medication, continuing to eat after feeling full can cause nausea. 

Weight loss is a long process where a person may not see the desired results right away. This may impact a person’s confidence and cause irritability. Some people may experience feelings of frustration and depression on their weight loss journey which can also impact intimacy with a partner. 

If you notice changes in your mental health, reach out to a healthcare provider. They may adjust dosage based on your symptoms and potentially provide additional resources for mental health services. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm, know that help is available by dialing or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Side effects of GLP-1 medications

Common side effects of GLP-1 medications may include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Fatigue

• Dizziness 

• Indigestion

• Headaches

Less common side effects include:

• Tachycardia (elevated heart rate)

• Upper respiratory tract infections

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)

What are Alternative Weight Loss Treatments?

While taking weight loss medications, consider following a diabetic-friendly meal plan and engaging in physical activity daily. Foods to prioritize include non-starchy vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats.

In the United States, GLP-1 agonists have grown in popularity as weight loss medications. However, there are other medications outside of this class of drugs that may help with weight loss. If interested in other treatments, it’s important to let a healthcare provider know beforehand of any additional medications you are taking.

Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Vivitrol (naltrexone) can be used together to reduce appetite by altering signals in the brain that affect food cravings.

Taking certain GLP-1 medications with metformin can also improve erectile function while promoting weight loss. Metformin is a medication for type 2 diabetes that can also promote weight loss. Participants in a study using a combination of the GLP-1 Saxenda (liraglutide) and metformin saw improvements in erectile function a year after starting treatment.

Things to Consider About GLP-1 Medications

Weight loss can improve erectile function in men with diabetes and obesity. While the effects of GLP-1s on health issues beyond weight loss are promising, their potential for preventing erectile dysfunction may vary among men.

More research is needed on men who do not have diabetes to know how directly GLP-1 agonists influence erectile function. If someone suspects that they developed erectile dysfunction after starting a weight loss medication, they should speak with a healthcare provider about next steps.

Prices for GLP-1 medications can vary depending on whether or not a person has health insurance and the type of health coverage they have. Be sure to speak with a licensed healthcare provider about additional treatment options.

How Rex MD Can Help

If looking for help with reaching your weight loss goals, the Rex MD Weight Management Program can provide you with access to a licensed healthcare provider, GLP-1 medications, metabolic testing, and more.

See if you qualify for the Rex MD Weight Management Program.