Hormone expert explains why people's sex drives go 'through the roof' when they take Mounjaro
A hormone expert has explained why some people’s sex drive goes ‘through the roof’ while using Mounjaro.
Use of the drug for weight loss has been knocking about for quite some time, but 2025 seems to be the year of it becoming more mainstream, having been rolled out on the NHS in recent months.
The self-injectable is typically designed for people with Type 2 diabetes, but has huge benefits to those losing weight. Mounjaro contains Tirzepatide, mimicking the actions of the GLP-1 and GIP hormones the body releases after eating.
It therefore makes people feel fuller for longer and reduces their appetite and combining this with reduced food intake and exercise means weight loss.
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But like all treatments, many people have reported various side effects and that includes an impact on sex drive.
Women’s health expert and GP Dr Shashi Prasad says the changes to sexual desire aren’t as understood as the more widely reported side effects.
“Sexual desire is such an important aspect of somebody's well-being, and this is still a relatively new treatment,” she told Daily Mail.
“We are increasingly finding that it's having an impact on people's libido—and it's not all to do with self-esteem.”
The doctor said a potential reason might be because body fat causes chronic, low-level inflammation which is a key factor being many obesity-related health issues like a reduced sex drive.
Another potential reason Dr Prasad highlights is that some Mounjaro users have not been wanting alcohol as much. And for some people, alcohol ‘physiologically actually suppress sexual desire’.
And of course, a change of body image and the boost in self confidence that many people may experience as a result can also play a part in an increased sex drive.
Amy Schumer is one of many celebs who have been open about using Mounjaro and she said that using it and hormone treatment for perimenopause saw her wanting ‘to get down more’.
“So yeah, that’s been great. Mounjaro’s been great,” she added.
However, some others see the opposite impact as they report a total drop in sex drive while using the treatment.
Neuropharmacologist Dr Alexis Bailey said it may drop despite the boost in self confidence due to reduced dopamine production.
“Our brains produce dopamine in response to anything that brings us pleasure, whether that's food, alcohol, cigarettes, socialising or sex,” the expert said.
“The leading theory is that GLP-1 injections helps dampen these dopamine surges.”
Dr Prasad added: “A drop in sex drive could simply be the result of fatigue caused by being in a calorie deficit.
“Or it could mean that your dose is too high and the drug is significantly affecting your nervous system and dopamine production.”
People who are concerned about their sex drive should speak to their doctor and all users should ensure they are maintaining a balanced, nutrient-dense diet.
The manufacturer of Mounjaro, Eli Lilly, told LADbible: "Mounjaro (tirzepatide) should only be used when prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional, and prescriptions should be fulfilled and supplied by registered pharmacies or providers.
"We encourage patients to consult their doctor or other healthcare professional to discuss any possible side effects they may be experiencing and to ensure that they are getting genuine Lilly medicine."
Topics: Mounjaro, Health, Sex and Relationships
Jess Battison