GLP-1 Medications and Smell: How Weight Loss Drugs May Be Changing Our Fragrance Preferences

Cassandra Browning exploring the olfactive impact of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) on the sense of smell.

GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), Ozempic, and Wegovy are best known for their impact on blood sugar regulation and weight loss. But beyond appetite, researchers are uncovering another fascinating effect: changes in smell and fragrance perception. For anyone working in fragrance, food, or wellness, understanding these olfactory shifts is becoming increasingly important.

How GLP-1 Medications Can Affect Smell

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the hormone GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar and appetite. What’s less widely known is that GLP-1 receptors are also present in the olfactory bulb, the part of the brain that processes smell. Activating these receptors may influence how we perceive scent, linking appetite regulation to sensory processing (Nature).

Emerging reports show that people taking GLP-1 medications often notice:

• Heightened sensitivity to strong odors

• Aversion to specific smells 

• Nausea linked to certain aromas

  
  

This aligns with research showing that while GLP-1 drugs don’t typically damage olfactory function, they may alter how the brain interprets smells in relation to appetite and nausea cues (Sensonic, The Future of Smell).

GLP-1 and Fragrance Preferences: Why Scents May Smell Different

For fragrance lovers, these sensory shifts can have real implications. Many people on GLP-1 medications report gravitating toward gourmand fragrances (vanilla, caramel, chocolate).

Interestingly, others are drawn to citrus and clean scents—fragrances that feel fresh, light, and energizing—while finding heavy or foody notes less appealing. Experts suggest this may be less about genuine olfactory preference and more about edible scents acting as substitutes for foods that are now restricted. The line between craving a scent and craving the food it represents can easily blur (Elevated Classics, Appellation)

Why These Smell Changes Matter

The link between GLP-1 medications and smell changes goes beyond curiosity—it highlights how interconnected appetite, wellbeing, and sensory perception are. Fragrance isn’t just a luxury; it plays a role in mood regulation, appetite, and quality of life.

For those in fragrance development, food innovation, or wellness, this raises important questions:

• We’re already seeing an increase in demand for gourmand fragrances. Is this due to younger consumers choosing comforting and familiar scents, or is the rise in popularity a form of sensory substitution for those on GLP-1 medication?

• Will we see increased demand for citrus and fresh scents as more people react to nausea symptoms while using GLP-1 medications?

• How should brands design fragrance experiences in light of these changes?

  
  

Looking Ahead

The science on GLP-1 and olfaction is still developing, but one thing is clear: GLP-1 medications are reshaping not only how people eat, but also how they smell and choose fragrances. Some experience dramatic shifts, others subtle changes—but all point to an emerging frontier at the intersection of medicine, wellness, and scent.

For brands and consumers alike, it’s worth paying close attention. The way we respond to fragrance in a GLP-1 world may help shape the next wave of scent innovation.

References

1. Nature – Study on GLP-1 receptors in the olfactory bulb and their role in sensory processing: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51076-4

2. Sensonics – Report on GLP-1 medications and potential impacts on taste and smell: https://sensonics.com/groundbreaking-study-reveals-weight-loss-medications-impair-taste-function/

3. The Future of Smell (Instagram) – Science-based insights on olfaction and sensory perception: https://www.instagram.com/p/DL0fFPER4X/?img_index=8

4. Elevated Classics – Discussion of gourmand fragrance trends and possible links to GLP-1 medications: https://elevated-classics.com/how-glp-1-alters-your-skin-and-heightens-your-sense-of-smell/

5. Appellation – Exploration of GLP-1 effects on sensory perception and fragrance experiences: https://appellation.co/blogs/journal/glp-1-and-your-sense-of-smell-how-weight-loss-drugs-may-be-changing-your-senses

6. Health Central – Overview of Mounjaro side effects and considerations for sensory health: https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/type-2-diabetes/mounjaro-side-effects