A new study presented at ENDO 2025, the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society, has revealed a surprising benefit of popular weight loss drugs. Besides helping men lose weight and control blood sugar, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Trulicity may also help raise testosterone levels naturally.
This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence linking GLP-1 medications and testosterone levels, offering a promising two-in-one solution for men struggling with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and low testosterone.
Why Testosterone Matters for Men’s Health
Testosterone isn’t just a sex hormone. It plays a vital role in:
- Muscle mass and strength
- Energy levels and mood
- Bone density
- Red blood cell production
- Sexual function and fertility
Many men with obesity or type 2 diabetes experience low testosterone, a condition called hypogonadism. One of the main culprits is abdominal fat, which converts testosterone into estrogen, further lowering hormone levels and causing symptoms like fatigue, low libido, and reduced muscle strength.
Can Weight Loss Help Restore Testosterone?
Yes—losing weight through lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery has long been known to help improve testosterone levels in men. However, the effect of newer weight loss drugs on hormones like testosterone hasn’t been studied as deeply—until now.
New Research: GLP-1 and Testosterone Levels in Obese Men
A study led by Dr. Shellsea Portillo Canales, an endocrinologist at SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital, explored how GLP-1-based weight loss medications impact testosterone.
Key Study Highlights [Ref]:
- Participants: 110 adult men with obesity or type 2 diabetes
- Medications used: GLP-1 receptor agonists (Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, Mounjaro)
- Study type: Retrospective review of electronic health records
- Follow-up duration: Up to 18 months
- No testosterone therapy used: All participants relied solely on the weight loss medication
Results:
- Average weight loss: About 10% of body weight
- Testosterone improvement: Men with normal testosterone rose from 53% to 77%
- No external testosterone therapy required
These findings suggest that GLP-1 medications may naturally improve testosterone levels, likely as a result of weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity.
What Do These Results Mean?
According to Dr. Portillo Canales, this is one of the first studies showing that low testosterone in men may be reversible through commonly used weight loss medications. Unlike testosterone replacement therapy, these drugs may help the body restore hormone balance on its own.
Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity specialist at Harvard Medical School, added that the study highlights the strong link between metabolic and hormonal health. These medications may offer broader benefits—improving not just blood sugar and weight, but also reproductive and hormonal well-being.
Should Men on Testosterone Therapy Be Concerned?
Yes—but in a good way. As GLP-1 drugs help restore the body’s natural testosterone production, some men may need lower doses of testosterone replacement—or none at all. That’s why regular hormone monitoring is important when starting these medications.
What Comes Next?
While this study is promising, it was a retrospective analysis. More rigorous randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the direct effects of GLP-1 drugs on testosterone levels and to assess long-term outcomes.
Final Takeaway
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are already known for their powerful effects on weight loss and blood sugar control. Now, research suggests they may also offer a natural way to improve testosterone levels in men with obesity or diabetes—supporting both metabolic and hormonal health in one treatment.