Genetic changes appear to help predict response to GLP-1 drugs for weight loss

Certain changes in two genes appear to help predict whether patients will lose significant weight with GLP-1 drugs used to treat obesity, and whether the drugs will cause nausea and vomiting, some of the most common side effects.

“I think we have proof of concept here that genetics plays a role in the efficacy and side effects of GLP-1,” said Adam Orton, deputy director of the 23andMe Institute and lead author of the paper published Wednesday in Nature..

While outside researchers were impressed and intrigued by the findings, some questioned whether the genetic results would impact patient care. Still, consumers who use what 23andMe calls its Total Health platform will have access to information about these genes and predictions about their use of GLP-1.

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