EFL071 – Taste Changes with Semaglutide

For our 71st episode, we review a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that explores how semaglutide may influence taste perception in women with obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome. While GLP‑1 receptor agonists are widely used for weight loss, the mechanisms underlying changes in food preference remain less well understood. This study takes a multimodal approach to examine whether semaglutide alters taste recognition, tongue gene expression, and brain responses to food-related cues. Host Chase Hendrickson, MD, MPH, MHCC, from Vanderbilt University, talks with regular contributor Na Shen, MD, from UCLA, and guest expert Kalpana Muthusamy, M.B.B.S., MD, from Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Together, they discuss "Semaglutide and Taste in Women With Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study," published in the January 2026 issue of JCEM.