GLP-1 Meds May Subtly Alter Smell and Taste, Study Finds

A large retrospective study across 170 centers found that people with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 drugs (such as semaglutide found in Ozempic/Wegovy) were about 48% more likely to be diagnosed with smell or taste disturbances than non-users, though the absolute risk is tiny (0.37% vs 0.22%). The findings do not prove causation and call for more research, but clinicians and patients should monitor for anosmia, parosmia, and parageusia, as these could affect diet and quality of life; potential mechanisms may involve GLP-1 receptors in the brain and olfactory system, and early detection could enable interventions like olfactory training.