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Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Whilst erectile dysfunction is not listed as a side effect of Mounjaro, many men wonder about the relationship between this medication and sexual health. The substantial weight loss and improved metabolic control achieved with tirzepatide may actually benefit erectile function indirectly, as obesity and diabetes are major risk factors for erectile dysfunction. Understanding how Mounjaro works and its potential effects on sexual health can help men make informed decisions about their treatment.
Quick Answer: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) does not directly cause erectile dysfunction; weight loss and improved metabolic health from treatment may actually improve erectile function in men with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription medicine licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related comorbidity, as an adjunct to reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It belongs to a novel class of medications known as dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, Mounjaro enhances insulin secretion when blood glucose levels are elevated, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite.
The medication is administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, starting at 2.5 mg with stepwise dose titration. Clinical trials have demonstrated that tirzepatide can lead to significant reductions in HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes, as well as substantial weight loss—often exceeding 15% of baseline body weight in some individuals. These metabolic improvements can have wide-ranging effects on cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure and lipid profiles.
Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation, particularly during dose escalation. Most side effects are mild to moderate and tend to diminish over time. Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycaemia (especially when used with insulin or sulphonylureas). Tirzepatide may worsen diabetic retinopathy in some patients. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and acute kidney injury, so maintaining adequate fluid intake is important.
Tirzepatide should not be used concurrently with other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Due to its effect on gastric emptying, tirzepatide may reduce the absorption of oral medications, including oral contraceptives, particularly during initiation and dose increases. Women using oral contraceptives should consider non-oral or additional contraceptive methods for 4 weeks after starting treatment or increasing the dose.
Understanding how Mounjaro works is essential when considering its broader health impacts, including potential effects on sexual function and erectile dysfunction.
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Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting men, particularly those with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The relationship between metabolic health and erectile function is well established. Excess body weight, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation can impair endothelial function—the ability of blood vessels to dilate properly—which is critical for achieving and maintaining an erection.
Research consistently shows that weight loss can improve erectile function in overweight and obese men. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that lifestyle interventions leading to weight reduction were associated with significant improvements in erectile function scores. The mechanisms are multifactorial: weight loss improves insulin sensitivity, reduces systemic inflammation, lowers blood pressure, and enhances nitric oxide bioavailability—all of which support healthy vascular function.
For men taking Mounjaro, the substantial weight loss achieved may therefore have a positive indirect effect on erectile function. Improved glycaemic control in those with type 2 diabetes is another important factor, as chronic hyperglycaemia can damage both the vascular and nervous systems that regulate erections. Better metabolic control may also improve testosterone levels, which are often reduced in men with obesity and metabolic syndrome, though this effect varies between individuals and should not be considered guaranteed.
It is important to note that there is no official direct link between Mounjaro itself and erectile dysfunction as a side effect. According to the Mounjaro Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), ED is not listed as an adverse reaction to tirzepatide. Any improvements in sexual function are likely attributable to the metabolic and weight-related benefits of treatment, which may take months to become apparent and are not guaranteed in all patients. Men experiencing ED should discuss their symptoms openly with their GP, as this may be an early indicator of cardiovascular disease requiring further investigation and management.
If you are taking Mounjaro and experiencing erectile dysfunction, a comprehensive approach to management is recommended. First, it is essential to establish whether the ED predates the initiation of Mounjaro or has developed during treatment. In many cases, ED in men with type 2 diabetes or obesity is a pre-existing condition that may improve as metabolic health stabilises.
Lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of ED management and complement the effects of Mounjaro. These include:
Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, plus muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week, as recommended by the UK Chief Medical Officers. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, endothelial function, and psychological well-being.
Smoking cessation: Smoking is a major risk factor for ED due to its detrimental effects on vascular health. The NHS Smokefree service can provide support.
Alcohol moderation: Excessive alcohol intake can impair sexual function and should be limited to within UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines (no more than 14 units per week).
Stress and mental health: Psychological factors, including anxiety and depression, can contribute to ED. Consider speaking to your GP about referral to counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy if needed.
Pharmacological treatments for ED, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil), are generally safe to use alongside Mounjaro. There are no known significant drug interactions between tirzepatide and PDE5 inhibitors. However, these medications should only be used under medical supervision, particularly in men with cardiovascular disease. If you are also taking alpha-blockers for hypertension or prostate conditions, careful dosing and monitoring are required due to the risk of blood pressure drops.
Your GP may also recommend a medication review to identify any drugs that could be contributing to ED (such as certain antidepressants, beta-blockers, or thiazide diuretics) and investigations to identify underlying causes, such as blood tests to assess morning testosterone levels (which may need to be repeated if low), lipid profile, HbA1c, and thyroid function. Addressing any identified abnormalities can further improve sexual health outcomes.
Erectile dysfunction is a common and treatable condition, yet many men delay seeking help due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that it is an inevitable part of ageing. If you are experiencing difficulties with erections—whether occasional or persistent—it is important to discuss this with your GP. ED can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease, as the smaller blood vessels supplying the penis are often affected before larger coronary arteries.
You should contact your GP if:
You have new or worsening erectile dysfunction, particularly if it coincides with other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg swelling.
ED is affecting your quality of life, relationships, or mental health.
You have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
You are experiencing other sexual health concerns, such as reduced libido, premature ejaculation, or pain during intercourse.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a painful erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), which is a medical emergency.
Your GP will take a detailed medical and sexual history and may perform a physical examination. Blood tests are often arranged to assess cardiovascular risk factors, hormone levels, and glycaemic control. A formal cardiovascular risk assessment (e.g., QRISK) may be recommended, with appropriate management of identified risk factors. Depending on the findings, your GP may initiate treatment, provide lifestyle advice, or refer you to a specialist, such as a urologist (for treatment-refractory ED or Peyronie's disease) or endocrinologist (for confirmed hypogonadism).
Patient safety advice: If you are prescribed PDE5 inhibitors, never use them in combination with nitrate medications (used for angina), as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Always inform your GP of all medications and supplements you are taking. Remember, discussing sexual health is a routine part of medical care, and your GP is there to support you in achieving the best possible health outcomes across all aspects of your well-being.
If you suspect Mounjaro or any medication is causing side effects, report them to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, which helps monitor the safety of medicines in the UK.
No, erectile dysfunction is not listed as a side effect of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in the UK Summary of Product Characteristics. Weight loss and improved metabolic health from Mounjaro may actually improve erectile function in some men.
Yes, PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil or tadalafil can generally be used safely alongside Mounjaro, as there are no known significant drug interactions. Always consult your GP before starting any new medication.
You should contact your GP if you have new or worsening erectile dysfunction, especially if accompanied by cardiovascular symptoms, or if ED is affecting your quality of life. Erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease.
All medical content on this blog is created based on reputable, evidence-based sources and reviewed regularly for accuracy and relevance. While we strive to keep content up to date with the latest research and clinical guidelines, it is intended for general informational purposes only.
DisclaimerThis content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any medical questions or concerns. Use of the information is at your own risk, and we are not responsible for any consequences resulting from its use.
