Genetic Variations Influence Efficacy of Weight-Loss Medications
Ground-breaking research published in the journal Nature indicates that individuals carrying certain genetic variations may experience greater weight loss and varying side effects from popular obesity medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro.
Understanding Genetic Influence
The study, based on data from 15,000 individuals, found that while the average weight loss was 11.7% over roughly eight months, some participants lost as much as 30% of their body weight, while others saw minimal changes. This disparity appears to be partly influenced by variations in two key genes.
Professor Ruth Loos from the University of Copenhagen highlighted that a specific genetic variant was associated with both increased weight loss and a higher incidence of nausea. Those with two copies of this variant, more prevalent in individuals of European ancestry, could double their weight loss compared to those without.
Furthermore, another genetic variant was linked to severe side effects, specifically extreme vomiting, for a small percentage of patients taking tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
Beyond Genetics: A Complex Picture
While these genetic insights are significant, experts caution that they represent only one piece of a larger puzzle. Dr Marie Spreckley from the University of Cambridge emphasised that behavioural, clinical, and treatment-related factors, such as diet, exercise, and overall health, play a more substantial role in treatment outcomes.
Other influencing factors include sex, with women more likely to achieve significant weight loss than men, and demographic aspects like age and ethnicity. The specific medication, dosage, and duration of treatment also contribute to the varying levels of weight loss observed.
Ultimately, while these findings are scientifically compelling and hint at a future of “precision medicine” where genetic profiles could guide treatment choices, Professor Naveed Sattar, a metabolic health expert from the University of Glasgow, notes that more robust trial data is needed before these discoveries can alter current clinical practice.
