As the use of Ozempic grows to be a popular trend, a strange side effect is being observed in its users. Ozempic is primarily a diabetes medication that is also used as a long-term weight management medication. Users of the medication and other GLP-1 weight-loss injections are experiencing a peculiar side effect.
Users of the weight loss medications are noticing their scent preferences are changing. The strange side effect of the medication is making people give preference to sweeter scents.
People who are on the medications are reportedly opting for dessert-inspired perfumes. Users have admitted to gravitating towards smells similar to marshmallows, vanilla, and caramel. The side effect is being experienced by so many people that it is being labeled as a “phenomenon” now.
The commonly experienced side effect is being called the “Ozempic Smell” by people. If the buying pattern of consumers is any indication, the sales of gourmand perfumes have significantly gone up in recent times, reports Hello Magazine.
The UK reportedly has 500,000 people who are on weight loss medications. 12% of America’s total population has opted in for GLP-1 drugs. At the same time, the market for sweet-scented perfume is estimated to be £24 billion. The timing of the people affected by the side effect and the increased sales of gourmand perfumes is assumed to be interlinked.
‘Ozempic teeth’ is the latest alarming side effect of weight-loss drugs: ‘Quite damaging’
Possible Causes:
1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): • Ozempic can reduce saliva production, and saliva helps protect teeth and gums. Without enough saliva, bacteria thrive, leading to decay and… pic.twitter.com/s8IZYNtijL
— Wall Street Mav (@WallStreetMav) May 26, 2025
GLP-1 agonists are known to suppress the appetite of the person taking them. The medication alters a person’s sense of smell and taste. “Studies confirm our smell can be affected by GLP-1 agonists – leading to increased and decreased sensitivity,” one of the researchers states.
Dr Priya Verma, who is an aesthetic doctor, explains what the reason behind the “Ozempic smell” could be. “If someone is consuming less sugar, their brain might seek other ways to satisfy that craving,” she notes. The doctor shares how the sweet smell that perfumes give off might be a “stand-in” for someone who is on weight-loss medications.
Ozempic has more pronounced side effects than any drug in modern American history.
80% of users experience chronic nausea. 😵💫
30% of users experience frequent vomiting 🤮
Black box warning on thyroid cancer 🚨
EU investigation into suicidal ideation❗️
It will be recalled.
— Calley Means (@calleymeans) April 2, 2024
Other side effects that people using the medication include ‘Ozempic Mouth’ and ‘Ozempic Feet.’ Dr Sofina Ahmed, a dentist, explains how Ozempic Mouth is causing people dryness, sensitivity, and ulcers in their mouths. Some people are even experiencing “faster ageing around the mouth,” the dentist tells Hello! Magazine.
‘Ozempic Feet’ Dr Scott Isaacs explains is when “fat loss is rapid, padding on the feet can shrink.” The president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology notes how people are seeing their skin appear looser. “The tendons are more visible. It’s not often discussed, but it’s real,” he added.
