GLP-1 medications did not harm male hormones or fertility after long-term use and may improve testosterone levels and sperm quality in men with obesity-related low testosterone, according to research being presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago.
Here are four things to know:
- Researchers at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire and Warwick Medical School in the U.K. reviewed randomized controlled trials comparing GLP-1s with placebo or other treatments in men ages 18-65. Five clinical trials met eligibility criteria.
- Across the studies, researchers found no negative effects on hormones, sexual function or sperm quality.
- A 24-week semaglutide study showed improvements in sperm shape and cholesterol levels while maintaining stable testosterone levels. A 16-week liraglutide study found increases in testosterone and related hormones among men with obesity-related low testosterone.
- The researchers said the findings support addressing obesity and metabolic health as the underlying cause of low testosterone rather than relying solely on testosterone replacement therapy. They cautioned that larger studies are needed and noted GLP-1s have not been evaluated as treatments for male infertility or hypogonadism.
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