Ozempic Weight Loss Success Varies by DNA

Key Points:

• A large-scale study by 23andMe involving nearly 28,000 individuals has identified genetic variants in the GLP1R and GIPR genes that explain why weight loss and side effects from GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound vary widely among patients.
• A specific missense variant in the GLP1R gene (rs10305420) is linked to greater weight loss, with carriers losing approximately 0.76 kg (1.6 lbs) more per allele, while variations in both GLP1R and GIPR genes are associated with nausea and vomiting side effects.
• The study found that nausea linked to the GIPR gene variant occurs specifically in users of tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), which targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, but not in users of semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy).
• Depending on genetic and clinical factors, patients’ risk of experiencing nausea or vomiting ranges from 5% to 78%, highlighting the potential for personalized treatment strategies based on genetic testing.
• 23andMe has incorporated these findings into its Total Health service, offering an interactive tool that estimates individual weight loss potential and side effect risk before starting GLP-1 therapy, aiming to reduce trial-and-error in obesity treatment with clinician guidance.