Researchers have identified certain genes that may indicate which patients with obesity are most likely to respond strongly to Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss drug Wegovy. The study found a 95% likelihood that patients with a specific genetic profile would be strong responders to the treatment. This information could help healthcare providers identify patients who would benefit the most from the expensive drug, according to Dr. Andres Acosta of the Mayo Clinic. Some individuals with obesity have a genetic profile that causes a “hungry gut,” leading them to feel full during a meal but become hungry again shortly afterward. These patients may see significant weight loss with Wegovy.
The study involved 84 patients who were prescribed Wegovy for the treatment of obesity. Those with genetic variants associated with the “hungry gut” phenotype lost an average of 14.4% of their total body weight after nine months on the drug, and 19.5% after a year. In comparison, participants without this genetic profile lost 10.3% of their body weight after nine months, with no further loss by 12 months. Researchers previously observed a similar pattern in patients taking the weight-loss drug liraglutide, marketed as Victoza and Saxenda by Novo Nordisk. While those without the “hungry gut” genes did lose some weight with Wegovy, they may be able to achieve similar results with less expensive options.
Dr. Acosta emphasized the importance of considering cost when prescribing expensive medications like Wegovy, which has a list price of $1,349.02 per month. He suggested that in some cases, less expensive therapies or even surgical options may yield comparable results for patients who do not have the genetic profile associated with a “hungry gut.” Larger studies are needed to assess the reliability of the identified genetic profile across more diverse populations. If the results are confirmed, healthcare providers can use this information to personalize treatment plans for patients struggling with obesity, informing them whether Wegovy is likely to be effective for their specific genetic makeup.
The researchers believe that confirming the validity of the “hungry gut” genetic profile can enable healthcare providers to offer more personalized and effective treatment for patients with obesity. By identifying those who are most likely to respond strongly to Wegovy, doctors can optimize the use of the costly medication and provide alternative treatment options for patients who are less likely to benefit from it. This information may help enhance the overall management of obesity and improve patient outcomes. Future studies will be essential to validate the findings and determine the broader applicability of the genetic profile across different populations. With further research, this genetic insight could revolutionize the approach to weight loss treatment for individuals with obesity.
