Rhianna Benson
A doctor has finally addressed concerns that Ozempic can affect a user's libido.
Speaking to PEOPLE, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr Steven Batash confirmed that the rumours are true, and that weight loss jabs have been known to impact the sex drives of men in particular.
Weekly weight loss injectables work by mimicking GLP-1 hormones in the body. This simultaneously prompts insulin production and reduces the liver's release of glucose, sending signals to the brain that slow down digestion and lower a user's appetite.
In recent years, these jabs, which were first rolled out to tackle type 2 diabetes symptoms, have skyrocketed in popularity, likely due to the number of huge-name stars who have hailed them as figure-slimming hacks.
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The most common side effects reported by jab users are gastrointestinal in nature, such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea and constipation.
Apparently, however, doctors are being increasingly bombarded with complaints from users claiming to have experienced several other side effects, including a loss of libido.
Addressing this issue, Dr Batash revealed that it's likely due to the area of the brain receiving signals of satisfaction.
"GLP-1s specifically decrease the amount of dopamine the brain releases after people indulge in behaviours like drinking, smoking, or even eating a sweet dessert," he explained. "Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that ‘reinforces the pleasure’ of doing those activities.
"When GLP-1s take away that pleasure, they also eliminate the motivation to do those activities."
The medic continued: "Studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, may have an impact on testosterone levels in men.
"Testosterone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in male sexual function. Reduced testosterone levels can result in a decrease in libido, as well as other sexual concerns such as [erectile dysfunction]."
Dr Batash went on to emphasise, however, that a 'reduced libido can be influenced by various factors', aside from weight loss jab use, 'including stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, hormonal imbalances and other health conditions'.
All of these, he added, 'can cause personality changes'.
Despite this, however, as Tyla previously reported, a number of users claim they experienced the opposite effect, and that the jabs boosted their sex drive.
An anonymous British man told Metro last year: "If you have an impulsive drive for sex, it would affect that. But I have a normal sexual appetite, so actually it’s made me enjoy sex more because I’m not as self-conscious of my body and I’ve got more energy."
A Reddit user agreed at the time, adding: "It's made my sex life better, my wife has noticed for sure.
Experts at Bolt Pharmacy recently explained why, for some people, this unexpected benefit might emerge.
"Many individuals living with obesity or type 2 diabetes report reduced sexual satisfaction, which may stem from multiple factors including body image concerns, reduced physical stamina, and psychological distress," the site says.
"When patients experience significant weight loss, whether through lifestyle modification, medication or surgery, improvements in sexual wellbeing are frequently reported."
Experts added: "This [weight] reduction may lead to enhanced self-confidence and a more positive body image, both of which are closely linked to sexual desire and satisfaction. Improved mobility and physical fitness can also contribute to greater comfort and enjoyment during intimate activity."