Recent research indicates that GLP-1 medications used for weight loss might enhance male fertility. Studies presented at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, suggested a strong link between obesity and male fertility issues.
Obesity and Male Reproductive Health
Excess weight disrupts the hormone system known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates testosterone production. It also leads to functional hypogonadism, where testosterone levels drop due to impaired hormone signaling. These hormonal changes can affect semen quality.
Weight-loss medications could influence sexual health in ways not previously considered.
GLP-1 Medications and Hormonal Impact
Researchers reviewed data from men aged 18 to 65 who were on GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. This analysis stemmed from five randomized controlled trials. The review focused on testosterone, hormones involved in sperm production, and proteins carrying sex hormones. The studies also measured semen quality, weight, BMI, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
The findings showed that GLP-1 medications do not reduce male hormones. Men with obesity-related low testosterone may experience improvements in testosterone and sperm quality, especially during weight loss.
Study Findings on GLP-1 Drugs
One four-week study using dulaglutide found no significant changes in reproductive hormones or sexual function. Meanwhile, a separate 16-week trial with liraglutide showed hormone improvement in obese men with functional hypogonadism. This implies obesity was the cause of low testosterone.
In another study, liraglutide improved sperm concentration and count. The researchers concluded that GLP-1s may enhance reproductive hormones and semen parameters in obese men with hypogonadism, especially during weight loss.
A 24-week trial with semaglutide, known as Ozempic and Wegovy, saw positive changes in sperm shape and cholesterol while maintaining total testosterone.
GLP-1s appear not to suppress the male HPG axis and might improve reproductive outcomes in the context of weight loss.
Call for Further Research
As there were only five trials, more studies are needed to confirm these associations. The current evidence is limited and varied, emphasizing the need for larger trials explicitly focused on male reproductive outcomes.
Dr. Anthony Puopolo, a men’s health expert and lead medical provider for RexMD, discussed these results. He highlighted the potential of GLP-1 medications to enhance testosterone levels in obese men with hypogonadism or low testosterone.
Pupo, who was not part of the study, showed optimism about the role of GLP-1s in improving male fertility. He suggested they could be a better option than testosterone replacement therapy since GLP-1s preserve fertility, whereas testosterone therapy can harm reproductive function.
Angelica Stabile reports for Fox News Digital, focusing on lifestyle content.
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