Why Some People Do Not Lose Weight on GLP-1 Drugs: Two Genes May Hold the Key

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Genetic clues have been identified that may predict the weight-loss effects and adverse effects of GLP-1 obesity medications.

According to STAT, a biotechnology news outlet, on the 8th local time, genetic testing company 23andMe published a study in the international journal Nature showing that variants in two specific genes may help predict patients’ responses to GLP-1 drugs.

The study suggests that genetic information may make it possible to determine in advance whether patients receiving GLP-1 drugs will experience substantial weight loss and whether they will develop nausea or vomiting, among the most common adverse effects.

Adam Auton, PhD, vice president at 23andMe Research, the paper’s senior author, said, “I think we have achieved a proof of concept that genetics plays an important role in the efficacy and adverse effects of GLP-1 drugs.”

Outside researchers were impressed by the findings, but some expressed skepticism about whether the genetic information would immediately affect the treatment of actual patients, STAT reported.

23andMe plans to allow consumers using its “Total Health” platform to view this genetic information and predictions about their use of GLP-1 drugs.