From the Guidelines
A metallic taste feeling can be caused by various factors, including COVID-19 infection, as evidenced by a study published in 2020 1, which reported cases of patients experiencing metallic smell and taste after contracting the virus.
Possible Causes of Metallic Taste
- COVID-19 infection: The study 1 found that some patients with COVID-19 reported a metallic taste, suggesting a possible link between the virus and this symptom.
- Other medical conditions: While the study 1 focused on COVID-19, other medical conditions such as upper respiratory infections, kidney or liver problems, and certain neurological disorders may also cause a metallic taste.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and antidepressants, can alter taste and cause a metallic sensation.
- Dental problems: Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or dental prosthetics can contribute to a metallic taste.
Importance of Medical Evaluation
If a metallic taste persists for more than a few days, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. This is particularly important in the context of COVID-19, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact outcomes 1.
Key Considerations
- The study 1 highlights the importance of considering anosmia (loss of smell) and other olfactory dysfunctions as potential symptoms of COVID-19.
- Healthcare workers, in particular, should be aware of the risk of COVID-19 and its associated symptoms, including metallic taste, due to their increased exposure to the virus 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Mouth: A sharp, unpleasant metallic taste is not unusual. ...and metallic taste. The cause of a metallic taste feeling can be the use of certain medications, such as metronidazole 2 or lithium 3.
From the Research
Causes of Metallic Taste Feeling
- Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) 4, 5, can cause a metallic taste feeling in some individuals.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 5, 6 and other gastrointestinal disorders may also contribute to a metallic taste sensation.
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) 6, a rare disorder characterized by excessive gastric acid production, can lead to a metallic taste feeling.
- Other factors, such as gastrinoma 6, a type of tumor that produces excess gastrin, can also cause a metallic taste sensation.
- Some studies suggest that certain types of cancer, including esophageal cancer 7, 8, may be associated with a metallic taste feeling, although this is not a direct cause.
Gastrointestinal Disorders and Metallic Taste
- GERD and other gastrointestinal disorders can cause a range of symptoms, including heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia 5.
- These disorders can also lead to changes in taste perception, including a metallic taste feeling 5, 6.
- Treatment of underlying gastrointestinal disorders may help alleviate metallic taste symptoms 4, 5.
Medications and Metallic Taste
- Certain medications, including PPIs 4, 5, can cause a metallic taste feeling as a side effect.
- Other medications, such as those used to treat cancer 7, may also contribute to a metallic taste sensation.
- Patients experiencing metallic taste symptoms should consult their healthcare provider to discuss potential causes and treatment options 5.