Eating weight loss pills makes your mouth smell so bad

The occurrence of bad breath after taking weight loss pills may be related to factors such as the inhibition of saliva secretion by drug ingredients and gastrointestinal dysfunction. The common reasons include drug side effects, changes in dietary structure, imbalance of oral microbiota, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and accumulation of metabolic products. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to investigate the specific cause and adjust the medication plan if necessary.

1. Drug side effects

Some weight loss drugs contain ingredients such as orlistat, which can inhibit fat absorption. Undigested fat is broken down by intestinal bacteria to produce sulfides, which are then excreted from the lungs through the bloodstream to form bad breath. Similar situations may occur when using Orlistat capsules, and the safety of medication should be evaluated in conjunction with liver function tests.

2. Changes in dietary structure

Low carbohydrate weight loss drugs may promote the body to enter a ketotic state, where ketones such as acetone are excreted through respiration, resulting in a rotten apple like odor. During the ketogenic diet, daily water intake should be at least 2000 milliliters, and moderate supplementation of complex vitamin B tablets can help improve metabolism.

3. Imbalance of oral microbiota

Dry mouth symptoms caused by weight loss drugs can reduce saliva flushing, leading to the overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria that decompose oral proteins and produce volatile sulfides. Chlorhexidine mouthwash can be used to inhibit bacteria and combined with probiotic preparations to regulate oral microbiota balance.

4. Gastrointestinal dysfunction

Some weight loss drugs contain irritating laxative ingredients such as senna leaves, which may cause gastrointestinal motility disorders and food retention, fermentation, and odor production if used for a long time. It is recommended to stop using laxatives such as Dahuang Tongbian Capsules and switch to osmotic laxatives such as lactulose oral solution.

5. Accumulation of Metabolites

Some weight loss drugs exert their effects by inhibiting central appetite or accelerating metabolism. When metabolic intermediates are not excreted smoothly through the liver and kidneys, ammonia substances may be released through the mucosa to form a urea odor. Liver and kidney function should be monitored, and if necessary, compound glycyrrhizin tablets should be used to assist in detoxification.

During the period of bad breath, it is recommended to maintain twice daily Pap brushing, use dental floss to clean the gaps between teeth, and rinse the mouth with physiological saline after meals. Increase the intake of high fiber foods such as celery and apples to promote intestinal peristalsis, and avoid heavy flavored foods such as garlic. If accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain and jaundice, stop taking medication immediately and seek medical attention. It is not recommended to self medicate with masking products such as breath fresheners.