GLP-1 Drugs Tied to Smell, Taste Changes

Overview

A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that patients with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 receptor agonists had a higher incidence of smell and taste disturbances compared to those on other diabetes medications. The absolute risk increase was 0.15%, translating to approximately 1.5 additional cases per 1,000 patients treated.

Background

The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) has become common in managing type 2 diabetes due to their efficacy in glycemic control and weight management. However, emerging evidence suggests potential sensory disturbances. Understanding these associations is crucial for clinicians managing diabetes care.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• GLP-1 RA users had a documented incidence of smell and taste disturbances of 0.37% compared to 0.22% in controls.
• An absolute risk increase of 0.15% was observed, equating to 1.5 additional cases per 1,000 patients treated.
• GLP-1 RA use was associated with a 48% higher hazard of developing smell or taste disturbances.
• Anosmia was diagnosed in 0.13% of GLP-1 RA users versus 0.07% of controls.
• Parosmia showed the largest relative association, diagnosed in 0.05% of GLP-1 RA users compared to 0.02% of controls.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware of the potential for smell and taste disturbances in patients prescribed GLP-1 RAs.

Conclusion

The study found an association between GLP-1 RA use and increased incidence of smell and taste disturbances.

Related Resources & Content

1. Zontag J, Zontag N, JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, 2026 -- Smell and Taste Disturbances Among Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Users
2. conexiant — GLP-1 Drugs Linked to GI Effects, Uncertain Signals
3. JAMA Network Open — Patient Experiences With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
4. National Institutes of Health (NIH) — Oral small-molecule GLP-1 drugs penetrate deep into the brain to suppress cravings
5. The New Gastroenterologist — GLP-1s Increase GERD Risk Over SGLT2 Inhibitors in T2D
6. GLP-1 Drugs Linked to GI Effects, Uncertain Signals
7. Patient Experiences With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
8. Oral small-molecule GLP-1 drugs penetrate deep into the brain to suppress cravings
9. Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026
10. Smell and Taste Disturbances Among Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Users