What causes loss in sense of smell and taste when on antibiotics?
Patient: I have lost my sense of smell and taste. I am taking Symbicort, spyriva, zyrtek, singulair daily. I take flonase and albuterol when needed. I have been taking most of the meds since December. Flonase and spyriva since mid april. If I stop any of these, will my sense of smell come back? Doctor: HiAntibiotics and many drugs can cause loss of taste and smell.Many antibiotics affect zinc absorption and zinc deficiency can cause a metallic taste or loss of taste.Antibiotics can also kill good bacteria in the oral cavity thereby increasing the risk of oral infections.These infections can also affect taste and smell.Steroid inhalers can cause sore throat and increased risk of fungal infections such as candidiasis in the mouth and pharynx.Fungal infections can also affect taste and smell.Mouth gargling with salt water or oral antiseptics like betadine along with regular brushing and tongue cleaning,the symptoms can be controlled.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. RegardsDr.Saranya Ramadoss, General and Family Physician