Some people with obesity have genetic profiles that contribute to what is called “hungry gut” — they feel full during meals but become hungry again shortly afterward because food leaves their stomachs more quickly than in most other people. Researchers have found that certain genes may identify patients with obesity who are most likely to respond strongly to Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss drug Wegovy.
Key Findings
At the recent Digestive Disease Week meeting in Washington, researchers revealed a study indicating a 95% likelihood that patients with this genetic profile would be strong responders to Wegovy. This discovery could help tailor obesity treatments more effectively, especially given the high cost of the drug.
Dr. Andres Acosta from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, a key researcher in the study, explained the significance of the findings. The study involved 84 patients prescribed Wegovy for obesity treatment. Those with the genetic variants associated with “hungry gut” lost an average of 14.4% of their total body weight after nine months on the drug and 19.5% after a year. In contrast, participants without this genetic profile lost 10.3% of their body weight after nine months and did not lose any more weight by the 12-month mark.
Acosta noted that similar patterns were observed in patients taking liraglutide, another weight-loss drug marketed under the names Victoza and Saxenda by Novo Nordisk. He suggested that patients without the “hungry gut” genes might achieve similar weight loss with less expensive therapies, such as other medications or surgery. Given the high list price of Wegovy, $1,349.02 per month, this could lead to more cost-effective treatment plans.
Study Implications
The study’s results offer a potential pathway for personalized obesity treatment. If further research confirms these findings, doctors could use genetic testing to determine which patients would benefit most from Wegovy. This precision medicine approach could optimize treatment outcomes and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs.
Dr. Acosta highlighted the potential for a significant shift in how obesity is managed: “When you’re going to spend this much money, you have to ask, ‘Is there a cheaper approach that will yield the same results in some patients, maybe other medications or surgery?’” Larger studies are necessary to assess the reliability of the “hungry gut” genetic profile across more diverse populations.
If confirmed, these results could enable healthcare providers to make more informed decisions. Dr. Acosta emphasized, “We know why you are struggling with obesity, and we can say with confidence, ‘This expensive drug will help you,’ or, ‘Hey, this might not be for you.’”
This groundbreaking study suggests that genetic profiling could become a critical tool in the fight against obesity. By identifying those most likely to benefit from expensive treatments like Wegovy, healthcare providers can offer more personalized and effective care, potentially transforming the landscape of obesity management.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions or changes to your treatment plan.
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Source: Today
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