Oral Manifestations Associated With Weight-Loss Medications: A Multidisciplinary Healthcare Review

Abstract

Background: Pharmacological weight-loss therapies are increasingly utilized as long-term interventions for obesity management, demonstrating significant benefits in weight reduction and cardiometabolic outcomes (Apovian et al., 2015; Davies et al., 2021). However, the oral health implications of these medications remain underrecognized despite growing evidence of medication-related oral adverse effects (Villa et al., 2015).

Objective: This review aimed to synthesize current evidence on oral manifestations associated with weight-loss medications and to highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary healthcare approach in their prevention and management.

Methods: A narrative review of peer-reviewed literature published between 2015 and 2024 was conducted, focusing on pharmacological weight-loss therapies and their oral health consequences. Relevant studies were identified across medical, pharmaceutical, dental, and nursing disciplines, with emphasis on mechanisms of action, clinical manifestations, and implications for practice.

Results: Evidence indicates that weight-loss medications are associated with a spectrum of oral manifestations, including xerostomia, dental erosion, increased caries susceptibility, periodontal inflammation, taste disturbances, and oral mucosal changes (Wolff et al., 2017; Lussi et al., 2011). These effects arise through interconnected mechanisms such as salivary gland dysfunction, gastrointestinal adverse effects, neurochemical modulation, and nutritional alterations (Villa et al., 2015; Ryan et al., 2020). Oral complications may negatively impact oral health–related quality of life and contribute to reduced adherence to pharmacological therapy if not adequately managed (Palacios & Joshipura, 2014).

Conclusion: Oral manifestations associated with weight-loss medications represent clinically relevant yet often overlooked adverse effects. Integrating oral health assessment and preventive strategies into pharmacological obesity management is essential for comprehensive, patient-centered care. Multidisciplinary collaboration among physicians, pharmacists, dentists, and allied healthcare professionals is critical for early identification, prevention, and management of oral complications, ultimately supporting safer and more effective long-term weight-loss treatment.