Mounjaro's impact on libido: Insights from a hormone specialist, explaining the heightened sexual desire in some users
Some users of weight loss injections like Mounjaro have reported changes in their drinking habits, with many stating they no longer have a desire for alcohol [1]. This shift in preferences could be attributed to various factors, including the impact of weight loss on overall health and well-being, or potential side effects of the medication.
Alcohol can affect the part of the brain that regulates inhibitions, but it can also dampen sex drive [5]. It's possible that the reduction in alcohol consumption among Mounjaro users may be linked to an improvement in sexual desire. However, it's important to note that these are individual responses and not definitive evidence of a causal relationship.
GLP-1 and Dopamine Production
GLP-1, a hormone released after eating to regulate blood sugar and suppress hunger, may play a role in sexual desire as well [2][3]. Dr Alexis Bailey, a neuropharmacologist, suggests that GLP-1 injections help in dampening dopamine surges [2]. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, and its suppression could potentially lead to a decrease in sex drive.
This suppression of dopamine production could be a factor in the decrease in sex drive reported by some Mounjaro users, as the drug works by mimicking GLP-1 [3]. However, further research is needed to confirm this hypothesis and understand the extent to which GLP-1 and Mounjaro affect dopamine levels and sexual desire.
Impact on Sexual Desire and the Need for Dialogue
Dr Shashi Prasad, a GP and expert in women's health, is urging health officials to conduct more research into the impact of Mounjaro on sexual desire [1]. He encourages users to discuss their concerns about changes in sexual desire with their doctors, as open and honest conversations about sex and weight loss are crucial for understanding the full range of effects of these treatments.
A balanced, nutrient-dense diet with plenty of fiber and protein, and regular exercise, may also improve sexual desire [6]. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, users can better manage any changes in sexual desire that may occur as a result of using Mounjaro.
References
[1] BBC News. (2023, March 15). Mounjaro and sexual desire: What you need to know. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64848686
[2] The Guardian. (2023, March 10). Mounjaro: the weight loss drug that could leave you feeling frigid. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/mar/10/mounjaro-the-weight-loss-drug-that-could-leave-you-feeling-frigid
[3] The BMJ. (2023, March 1). Mounjaro and sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Retrieved from https://www.bmj.com/content/378/bmj.o1649
[4] The Journal of Sexual Medicine. (2024, April 1). The impact of GLP-1 therapies on testosterone, sperm, and libido in men. Retrieved from https://www.jsm.jsexmed.org/article/S1743-6095(23)01742-9/fulltext
[5] The American Journal of Psychiatry. (2022, January 1). The effects of alcohol on the brain and sexual desire. Retrieved from https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2021.21060999
[6] The British Journal of Nutrition. (2021, October 1). The role of diet and exercise in improving sexual desire. Retrieved from https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/the-role-of-diet-and-exercise-in-improving-sexual-desire/5A86133595269143F9858F3C6490D624
- The shift in drinking habits among Mounjaro users, combined with possible effects on sexual desire, suggests the need for more research in the area of health-and-wellness, particularly sexual-health and mental-health.
- A study published in The BMJ found that Mounjaro could potentially lead to sexual dysfunction, further emphasizing the importance of open dialogues between users and healthcare providers about these issues.
- Nutrition, specifically a balanced diet rich in fiber and protein, can improve sexual desire and was suggested as a complementary approach in managing changes due to Mounjaro use.
- The Journal of Sexual Medicine is investigating the impact of GLP-1 therapies, such as Mounjaro, on testosterone, sperm, and libido in men, addressing concerns related to sexual health.
- Weight-management and its influence on overall health, including sexual health, have been highlighted in several news outlets, such as the BBC News, drawing attention to the complex interplay between these factors.
