Investigating the effects of GLP-1 analogues on sexual desire in overweight and obese individuals

The Desire PLUS Study - Effects of Glucagon-like-Peptide-1 Analogues on Sexuality: a Prospective Open-label Study

Observational University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT05598008

This study is testing if a new weight loss treatment can improve sexual desire and overall well-being in overweight and obese men and women when combined with lifestyle changes.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment78 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other
Locations1 site (Basel)
Trial IDNCT05598008 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore how glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues, when combined with lifestyle interventions, affect sexual desire, mood, quality of life, and other health parameters in overweight and obese men and women. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving GLP-1 analogue treatment alongside lifestyle changes, and the other undergoing lifestyle changes alone. The study will also assess hormonal levels, physical fitness, and microvascular health through retinal vessel measurements. By examining these factors, the study seeks to understand the broader implications of GLP-1 treatment beyond weight loss.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include overweight or obese individuals with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or higher who are willing to engage in lifestyle changes and have an active sex life.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes mellitus or those who have used GLP-1 analogues in the past two months may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how GLP-1 analogues may improve sexual desire and overall quality of life for overweight and obese patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the effects of GLP-1 analogues on weight loss are well-documented, the specific impact on sexual desire is less explored, making this study a novel investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2
* Willingness to lose weight by lifestyle changes only or by lifestyle changes plus GLP-1 analogue treatment as agreed in a routine clinical appointment
* Active sex life (sex with partner or masturbation ≥2x/month)
* Eugonadism:

  * Men: morning total testosterone ≥12mmol/l or free testosterone ≥ 0.198 nmol/l if\< 50 years old and ≥ 0.163 if \> 50 years old
  * Women: no primary or secondary amenorrhea (inclusive menopause) \*Secondary amenorrhea is defined as "absence of menses for more than three months in women who previously had regular menstrual cycles or six months in women who had irregular menses".

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diabetes mellitus, HbA1c ≥ 6,5 %
* Previous use of GLP-1 analogues during last 2 months.
* Exogenous testosterone substitution
* Current illicit drug abuse
* Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Basel

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Sexual DesireGlucagon-like-Peptide-1Glucagon-like peptide-1 analoguesobesitysexualityLiraglutideobese menreproductive axis
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.