What causes Ozempic breath and what can be done to reduce it?

At EndoSlim Clinic of Atlantic Gastroenterology in Brooklyn, New York, we specialize in providing the highest, best-quality care for patients with digestive and liver disorders. Our team of experienced doctors, nurses, and medical staff is dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to each patient. We can also help them with certain concerns, including weight reduction with Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide) injections. While some patients may start to experience what is now known as “Ozempic breath,” our board-certified Gastroenterologist and Obesity Medicine Specialist Dr. Alexander Shapsis, can talk to you about your options.

What is “Ozempic breath?”

“Ozempic breath” is the term coined for a fishy malodorous smell in one’s burps or an overall experience of unwanted bad breath. While there is no “clinical diagnosis” for this exactly, it is a side effect sometimes noted by those who are using semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy) injections to lose weight. Ozempic is not the only GLP-1 medication that is known to do this; some patients on Mounjaro or Zepbound also notice changes in the smell of their breath and burps.

What causes Ozempic breath?

There is no official consensus that changes in breath, such as halitosis, are a side effect of these medications, but that does not mean that it does not exist. The decrease in gastric emptying that happens as a result of the GLP-1 medications can lead to food breaking down and fermenting in the stomach, causing malodorous burps and bad breath that can be noticeably unpleasant.

What can be done about bad breath and burps caused by Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications?

For many, their bodies soon start to adjust to the medications, and these issues subside on their own. However, others still find it lingering and problematic. In situations such as this, talking with Dr. Alexander Shapsis and his team at EndoSlim Clinic of Atlantic Gastroenterology is the first step in finding out what can be done. Certain lifestyle changes, including eating dinner up to four hours before bedtime and focusing on fruits and vegetables, leaner proteins, and any healthy fats to reduce gas can also assist in reducing the severity of halitosis and unpleasant burps.

Should I see a dentist?

In some cases, patients taking Ozempic and similar medications may also experience other oral health concerns, such as an increased risk of enamel erosion, gingivitis, cavities, periodontal disease, and sensitive teeth. In addition to working with our gastroenterologist, patients may also be referred to a dentist to address any oral health concerns that may be a side effect of this medication.

Schedule time to learn more about how to reduce “Ozempic breath”

If you have recently started on an Ozempic regimen and you are feeling self-conscious about any changes in your breath, Dr. Alexander Shapsis and his dedicated medical team at EndoSlim Clinic of Atlantic Gastroenterology can help! Call 718 521-2840 to request an appointment at one of our office locations in Brooklyn, New York, including our Ocean Parkway clinic and our Court Street clinic. We can assist you with your needs and educate you on solutions for improving your overall health and wellness!

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