What Causes a Funny Metalic Taste in Your Mouth

Key takeaways:

• A metallic taste is usually temporary and often not a cause for concern.

• There are medications and underlying health conditions that can cause a metallic taste in your mouth.

• Know what to look out for in case a metallic taste is a sign of a more serious problem.

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There are many reasons why you may develop a metallic taste in your mouth. It's commonly related to medications or supplements — and it will go away on its own. But there are times when a metallic taste should prompt you to see your healthcare provider. Read on to learn more about why you may have a metallic taste in your mouth and what you should do about it.

What medications can cause a metallic taste in your mouth?

There are many medications or supplements that can cause a metallic taste in your mouth, including:

• Some antibiotics and antiviral medications, such as metronidazole

• Some psychiatric medications, such as lithium

• Some blood pressure medications, such as captopril

• Some diabetes medication, such as metformin

• Some cancer medications (chemotherapy)

• Some seizure medications, such as phenytoin

• Steroid pills

There are also many vitamins and supplements that may cause a temporary metallic taste in your mouth, especially those that have iron, copper, or calcium.

What medical conditions might cause a metallic taste in your mouth?

A metallic taste in your mouth can also be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. For example, it can be seen with these health conditions:

• Dental issues, such as a tooth infection or gum disease

• Sinus problems or a sinus infection

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Diabetes

• Chronic kidney disease

• Metal toxicity (such as from the ingestion of lead, copper, or mercury)

What does a metallic taste in your mouth during pregnancy mean?

Many people may find they have a metallic taste in their mouth during pregnancy. Scientists believe this is related to hormonal changes, and it's usually worse in the first trimester. While it can be unpleasant, it's often nothing to be concerned about and will go away with time.

Is a metallic taste a sign of an allergy?

A metallic taste in your mouth may be a sign of a food allergy, likely related to the body's immune response. In some cases, it can even indicate an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis. If you develop any difficulty breathing, swelling, itchy skin, or other concerning symptoms it's very important to go to the emergency room.

How does COVID-19 change your sense of taste and smell?

One symptom of COVID-19 is an altered taste and smell. Researchers don't completely understand why this happens, but it's likely due to inflammation of the lining of the nose and the nerve endings that control smell and taste.

Some people also note a metallic taste right after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. The new oral antivirals — Paxlovid and Molnupiravir — could also cause a metallic taste as a side effect.

Should I worry about a metallic taste in my mouth?

Most of the time, a metallic taste in your mouth is temporary and harmless. But it can be a symptom of a more serious health condition, so it's a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider if the metallic taste persists or is associated with other symptoms such as allergy symptoms, pain, or any signs of infection.

How do you get rid of the taste of metal in your mouth?

Often the metallic taste will get better on its own once the cause has been identified and addressed. The best treatment will depend on the cause. If it's ongoing or worsening, it's a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider. They may refer you for imaging studies or to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Depending on the cause, there may be other treatments or medications that can help.

What lifestyle changes help?

In addition to figuring out and treating the underlying cause, there may be some steps you can take at home to help minimize the metallic taste. This may include:

• Brushing your teeth regularly

• Chewing on gum

• Staying hydrated

• Avoiding smoking

• Trying different foods and spices

• Rinsing your mouth with salt water or mouthwash

The bottom line

There are many reasons why you may develop a metallic taste in your mouth. Most of the time you do not need to worry. It's commonly due to medications or supplements and will resolve on its own. But there are times when you should see your healthcare provider about a metallic taste in your mouth, as it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical problem.

Bhandare, N. N., et al. (2014). Diabetic tongue - Could it be a diagnostic criterion? Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care.

Choo, E., et al. (2017). The impact of pregnancy on taste function.

Delompré, T., et al. (2019). Taste perception of nutrients found in nutritional supplements: A review. Nutrients.

IJpma, I., et al. (2015). Metallic taste in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. Cancer Treatment Reviews.

Informed Health. (2020). Food allergies: Anaphylactic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Kuga, M., et al. (2009). Changes in gustatory sense during pregnancy. Acta Oto-Laryngologica.

Lee, N., et al. (2014). Taste of a pill: Organic cation transporter-3 (OCT3) mediates metformin accumulation and secretion in salivary glands. The Journal of Biological Chemistry.

National Institutes of Health. (2018). Taste disorders.

Schiffman, S. (2018). Influence of medications on taste and smell. World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.

Srinivasan, M. (2021). Taste dysfunction and long COVID-19. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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