Question: I’ve heard GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro might change how food tastes or smells. Is that true?

Yes, many people taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro report noticeable changes in how food tastes and smells. While these drugs are primarily known for suppressing appetite and slowing digestion, they can also cause dysgeusia, an altered sense of taste that makes familiar foods seem overly sweet, metallic, or unappealing. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from San Antonio TX, Alamo Heights TX, Balcones Heights TX, Leon Valley, TX, Terrell Hills TX, Windcrest TX, and surrounding areas.

Answer from Brenda:
Yes—a large study published in June 2026 looked at this exact question. Researchers studied more than 438,000 people with type 2 diabetes. They compared those taking GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Trulicity, and similar drugs) to people with diabetes who were not taking them.

Here’s what they found:
• People on GLP-1 medications had a higher chance of developing changes with smell or taste.
• Smell changes (including weaker smell or distorted smells) were more common than taste changes.
• The overall risk was still low — about 0.37% of people on GLP-1s experienced these issues versus 0.22% of those not on them.

What this means for you
Most people will not notice any change in taste or smell. But some may find that food tastes different, smells are weaker or “off,” or their sense of taste changes after starting one of these medications.

What should you do if this happens?
• Tell your provider on your next office visit.
• Do not stop your medication on your own. These medicines help many people control blood sugar and support healthy weight loss.
• Ask your care team; we can help decide the next step(s) for you.

Bottom line from Brenda:
GLP-1 medications are helpful for many patients. Some patients will experience changes to smell and taste. If you are concerned let your provider know.

If you have questions about your medication or are noticing any changes, we’re here to help.

— Brenda Lone Star Center for Health & Wellness

Source: Zontag J, Zontag N. JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, June 2026.