GLP-1 receptor drugs and sexual function in women and men: current findings and the need for more research

GLP-1 receptor activation may suppress sexual motivation in animal models.

• In rodents, administration of the GLP-1 receptor agonist exendin-4 reduced sexual interaction behaviors in specific brain regions.
• Activation of the nucleus of the solitary tract was associated with decreased pre-sexual, sexual, and post-sexual behaviors, alongside increased corticosterone levels.
• Human studies report mixed outcomes, with some evidence of erectile dysfunction and decreased libido among GLP-1 receptor agonist users, though these associations were statistically insignificant.
• Self-reported user experiences on social media indicated variable effects on libido, with some attributing enhancements to weight loss while others reported decreased desire.
• A randomized trial showed that dulaglutide did not affect sexual desire or reproductive hormone levels in healthy men, suggesting no direct impairment in male sexual function.
• Recent clinical case reports have highlighted potential sexual side effects in women using GLP-1 receptor agonists.

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