A new study published in Nature reveals that individuals carrying mutations in two genes associated with hunger and digestion can lose more weight when using obesity treatments such as Wegovy and Mounjaro.
The results suggest that these genetic mutations may explain why some individuals lose more weight than others and why some experience severe side effects such as nausea and vomiting while taking these medications.
Details of the Findings
The common medications work by reducing hunger sensations through mimicking a natural hormone in the gut that makes users feel full. While genetics play a relatively moderate role in determining the effectiveness of these drugs, other factors such as gender, age, and the individual's background can also influence outcomes.
It is estimated that around 1.6 million people in the UK have tried weight loss medications over the past year, and this number is expected to rise. Most of these individuals purchase the medications privately through online pharmacies, as the National Health Service (NHS) provides these drugs to only a small percentage of those suffering from obesity and related health issues.
Background & Context
The rate of weight loss when using weight loss medications varies significantly. Clinical trials indicate a loss of 14% of body weight when taking semaglutide (such as Ozempic and Wegovy) and 20% when using tirzepatide (such as Mounjaro). In this study, which involved 15,000 individuals taking weight loss medications, participants lost an average of 11.7% of their body weight over approximately eight months of treatment, with some losing as much as 30% while others lost nothing.
All participants had previously signed up for genetic testing by 23andMe, which used that data to track the experiences of individuals taking weight loss medications. By analyzing millions of genetic mutations, researchers found a pattern indicating a relationship between certain mutations and drug effectiveness.
Impact & Consequences
Professor Ruth Loos from the University of Copenhagen, who wrote about the research in Nature, stated, "The study found genetic mutations linked to weight loss, which were also associated with nausea. Individuals carrying this mutation lose more weight."
The additional weight lost averages around 0.76 kg (1.6 pounds), but individuals with two copies of the genes can double the amount of weight lost. The mutation is common among people of European descent, with 64% carrying one copy, while 16% have two copies, compared to 7% of African Americans.
Regional Significance
In the Arab world, obesity rates are rising significantly, raising concerns about public health. This research may help guide health policies and develop tailored treatment strategies to combat obesity in the region. Additionally, these findings could open new avenues for understanding how to use medications more effectively.
In conclusion, the results highlight the importance of understanding genetic factors in the effectiveness of weight loss drugs, which may help improve therapeutic outcomes for individuals. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings and apply them in clinical practices.