Loss of Taste in Multiple Sclerosis

A loss of or diminished sense of taste in multiple sclerosis is more common now than it was once believed to be. Changes in taste can come and go for a person living with MS. Different types of taste —saltiness, savoriness, bitterness, sourness and sweetness — may not be affected the same way.While it is unclear how loss of taste can happen, researchers say it can be traced back to the breakdown of the myelin sheath, the protective covering around nerve fibers.If you experience a loss of taste, contact your healthcare provider. If left untreated, changes in taste can lead to other health issues, such as loss of appetite, weight loss and even depression.

Is Your Loss of Taste Due to MS or Something Else?

Around 25% of people diagnosed with MS have experienced diminished taste. While a loss of taste can be a symptom of MS, factors such as your current medications or comorbid conditions (having more than one condition at the same time) can affect your sense of taste, too.Some medications can cause dry mouth. This results in a metallic taste because your taste buds close. This affects your sense of taste.Get more specific information about what might affect your sense of taste.

Is Your Loss of Taste Due to MS or Something Else?

Some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as Lemtrada, Copaxone and Aubagio
Medications such as Oxybutynin, often prescribed for bladder control issues
Muscle relaxants and spasticity medications including Baclofen and Dantrolene
Antidepressants
Steroid medications used for MS exacerbations
Illness (cold, flu, sinus infection, COVID-19, allergies)
Reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Dental or mouth problems
Dry mouth or any condition causing damage to the taste buds
Head injury
Hormone imbalances
Nasal polyps
Exposure to radiation therapy for head or neck cancer
Tobacco use
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Nutritional deficiencies (particularly zinc and vitamin B12)
Hypertension
Sjogren’s syndrome
Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Antibiotics
Psychiatric medications
Amphetamines
Methylphenidates
Blood pressure medications
Seizure medications
Gout medications
Talk to your doctor if you think your medications or conditions are affecting your sense of taste. Do not stop taking prescribed medications without first discussing it with your doctor.

Ways to Improve Your Sense of Taste

Try the following to improve your sense of taste and enhance your experience with different foods:

Don’t be afraid to try new spices.
Marinate meats.
Add tart foods.
Engage all senses related to taste.
Address dry mouth directly.
Slow down.
Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products.
Improve oral hygiene habits (floss daily and visit the dentist regularly).
Stay hydrated.
Wash hands often to reduce risk of infections.

Ask an MS Expert: Your Sense of Taste and MS

Loss of Taste

Some MS medications

Comorbid conditions

Other medications

Ways to Improve Your Sense of Taste

Additional Resources