Beyond weight loss: How GLP-1 medications are changing men's health

GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) have become widely known for helping people lose weight. Physicians at Loma Linda University Health say the medications are also helping many men improve their overall health, from diabetes and heart disease risk to sleep apnea and hormone health.

Originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications work by helping regulate blood sugar, slowing digestion, and reducing appetite. Over time, researchers have discovered they can also lead to significant weight loss and improvements in a variety of obesity-related conditions.

"GLP-1 medications have been a game changer," says Kevin Codorniz, MD, an endocrinologist at Loma Linda University Health. "They've helped improve diabetes care and obesity treatment in ways we haven't seen before."

Why weight matters for men's health

Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, increases the risk of conditions that disproportionately affect men, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease.

"We know that men have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease overall," Codorniz says. "If we're able to reduce weight and improve those risk factors, we're helping lower the chances of serious health complications down the road."

Beyond heart health, obesity can also affect hormone production. According to Herbert Ruckle, MD, a urologist at Loma Linda University Health, excess visceral fat can disrupt the body's normal testosterone production.

"Visceral fat contains high levels of an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen and suppresses natural testosterone levels," Ruckle says.

As men lose weight and improve their metabolic health, testosterone levels often begin to recover as the body's hormone systems function more normally.

More than a diabetes medication

While GLP-1 medications remain a cornerstone of diabetes treatment, they are increasingly being prescribed for obesity and related health conditions.

Candidates may include men with:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Obesity or overweight with related medical conditions

• Cardiovascular risk factors

• Obstructive sleep apnea

"Sleep apnea is a growing area where these medications can make a meaningful difference," Codorniz says. "Weight loss can improve symptoms and overall health for many of these patients."

Not everyone is a candidate, however. People with certain gastrointestinal disorders, a history of medullary thyroid cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, or other specific medical concerns may not be good candidates for treatment.

The concern of muscle loss as a side effect

One of the most important conversations physicians are having with patients taking GLP-1 medications is how to preserve muscle while losing weight.

"When you lose weight, you're not only losing fat," Codorniz says. "If you don't actively work to maintain your muscle mass, you can lose muscle as well."

The risk increases as patients lose larger amounts of weight. To help prevent muscle loss, experts recommend strength-training exercises, adequate protein intake, and proper hydration throughout treatment.

"It doesn't have to be complicated," Codorniz says. "You need some form of resistance training and enough protein to support your muscles while you're losing weight."

Good protein sources include Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs, legumes, nuts, and fish.

Separating fact from hype

As GLP-1 medications continue to dominate headlines and social media feeds, Codorniz says one of the biggest misconceptions is that they are a quick fix for anyone who wants to lose a few pounds.

"These medications are powerful tools, but they're not magic," he says. "They have real benefits, but they also have potential side effects and need to be used appropriately."

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Physicians typically start patients on low doses and gradually increase them to minimize discomfort.

Perhaps most importantly, experts emphasize that medication alone is not enough.

"The people who do the best are the ones who use this as part of a larger health plan," Codorniz says. "If you don't build healthy habits while you're losing weight, there's a very good chance that weight can come back when the medication stops."

A whole-person approach

At Loma Linda University Health, providers work closely with patients to determine whether GLP-1 medications are appropriate and how to use them safely as part of a broader plan for long-term health.

"The most important thing is to work with a healthcare provider who can help determine if these medications are right for you," Codorniz says. "Our goal isn't just weight loss. It's helping patients improve their overall health and create lasting changes that support them for years to come."

Men concerned about their weight, diabetes, sleep apnea, or other obesity-related health conditions should talk with their healthcare provider about whether GLP-1 medications may be appropriate for them. To learn more about endocrinology and weight management services at Loma Linda University Health, visit lluh.org/services/endocrinology.