Ozempic’s ‘Bedroom Side Effect’: A Dive into Desire and Dopamine

Psychologist Explains Link Between Weight-Loss Drug and Libido Changes

A new perspective from a psychologist sheds light on how Ozempic, primarily prescribed for Type-2 diabetes, may affect a person’s sex drive by influencing the brain’s reward system. While many are using the drug off-label for weight management, its impact on intimacy is an emerging area of discussion.

Impact on the Brain’s Reward System

Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, functions by reducing appetite and controlling “food noise”—the constant mental preoccupation with eating. It also aids in blood sugar stabilization and curbing cravings, contributing to weight loss by limiting food intake.

However, Rachel Goldman PhD, a physiologist and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, explained to PureWow that GLP-1s interact with the brain’s reward center. This interaction is key to reducing cravings for food and alcohol, but it can also extend to other desires, including sex.

“What we do know is GLP-1s impact the reward centre in the brain, which is why you’re having less food noise, fewer cravings and less interest in alcohol use. It’s also why what might impact your sex drive.”

—Rachel Goldman PhD, Physiologist and Professor

Goldman noted that while some patients report diminished sex drives, others have experienced heightened libidos. This variability makes it challenging to pinpoint Ozempic as a direct cause for all reported changes in sexual desire.

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open in 2023 found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, was associated with improvements in sexual function in men with Type-2 diabetes, suggesting a complex and potentially varied impact on libido.

Relationship Strain and User Experiences

Reports on social media platforms highlight how these shifts in libido can impact relationships. One user on Reddit shared their experience:

“The only side effect I have noticed that’s causing issues in my life is that I have absolutely no sex drive at all, and I’m almost repulsed by the notion of it. I have more or less the same feelings that I have when presented with a big meal. Like the thought of having sex is almost nauseating.”

—Reddit User

The user further elaborated on how this decrease in intimacy has strained their relationship with their boyfriend of 2.5 years, emphasizing the potential for relationship imbalance if partners’ desires shift. Goldman concurred that such imbalances can lead to feelings of exclusion for one partner.

Manufacturer’s Stance on Patient Safety

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, reiterates that patient safety is paramount. They emphasize that the medication should be used only for its approved indications and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. The company actively monitors safety data and encourages users to report any adverse effects to their healthcare provider or the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

LADbible Group has reached out to Novo Nordisk for additional comments.