How GLP‑1 weight‑loss medicines affect taste and eating habits
Changes in Taste Perception, Eating Habits, and Other Behavioral Aspects Associated With the Use of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients Undergoing Weight Loss Treatment: A Retrospective Observational Study.
This project sees if adults with obesity who take GLP‑1 drugs for at least 12 weeks notice changes in taste, food preferences, and eating habits.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | San Raffaele Telematic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 4 sites (Roma, Italy and 3 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT07229170 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a retrospective observational analysis of adults aged 18–60 treated with GLP‑1 receptor agonists at specialized nutrition centers in Italy. Researchers extract anonymized clinical records, dietary questionnaires, bioimpedance body composition data, and metabolic measures from before and after at least 12 weeks of therapy with drugs such as semaglutide or tirzepatide. The primary focus is on changes in taste perception and food preferences, with secondary outcomes including weight, BMI, fat and lean mass, gastrointestinal side effects, physical activity, energy expenditure, and treatment adherence. Statistical comparisons use paired tests and regression models adjusted for age, sex, baseline BMI, diabetes status, and concomitant medications.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–60 with obesity who have been treated with GLP‑1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide or tirzepatide) and have available pre‑ and post‑treatment clinical and dietary records at the participating centers are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People outside the 18–60 age range, those without at least 12 weeks of documented GLP‑1 treatment data, or those with independent taste disorders or severe comorbidities are unlikely to benefit from this analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians personalize counseling on food choices and manage side effects to improve adherence and weight‑loss outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior clinical reports and trials have suggested GLP‑1 drugs can alter appetite and food preferences, but systematic retrospective analyses focused specifically on taste perception remain limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion: Adults aged 18-60 years diagnosed with obesity and undergoing treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide or tirzepatide. Must have clinical records and dietary data available for at least 12 weeks of treatment. Exclusion: Patients with conditions affecting taste independent of GLP-1 treatment, severe comorbidities, or inability to provide consent and data.
Where this trial is running
Roma, Italy and 3 other locations
- San Raffaele Open University — Roma, Italy, Italy (Recruiting)
- Department for the Promotion of Human Science and Quality of Life San Raffaele Open University — Rome, Italy (Recruiting)
- San Raffaele Open University — Rome, Italy (Active_not_recruiting)
- San Raffaele Open University — Rome, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mauro Lombardo, MD
- Email: mauro.lombardo@uniroma5.it
- Phone: +393899740197
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.