A matched electronic health record study of more than 876,000 patients with type 2 diabetes found a low absolute incidence but higher relative hazard of documented smell and taste disturbances among patients prescribed glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.
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
Group
Smell Disturbances
Taste Disturbances
GLP-1 RAs
0.15%
0.18%
Matched Controls
0.07%
0.10%
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.
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