Researchers at the 23andMe Research Institute have identified genetic variants linked to weight loss and side effects among patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists.
The study, published April 8 in Nature, analyzed data from 27,885 people who reported using GLP-1 medications. It found a genetic variation linked to better response to GLP-1 drugs, with patients losing about 0.76 kg more per copy of the variant.
Researchers also identified genetic associations tied to nausea and vomiting, including variants in GLP1R and GIPR. The GIPR association was observed only among patients using tirzepatide.
GLP-1 drugs are widely used in the U.S., where about 40% of adults are classified as living with obesity and an estimated 1 in 8 people has used a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
The findings suggest genetic data could help predict treatment response and side effect risk, supporting more personalized approaches to obesity care.
