Certain people will benefit the most from the meds.
A study presented at the Digestive Disease Week 2024 conference has identified a risk score biomarker that could help determine the effectiveness of semaglutide medications, like Wegovy, for weight loss by pinpointing individuals with a “hungry gut” phenotype. This phenotype is characterized by feeling hungry shortly after eating due to rapid stomach emptying. Researchers used machine learning to develop a gene risk score predicting this condition.
The study involved 84 participants with obesity or weight management issues, collecting saliva or blood samples for genetic analysis and information about their eating habits. Participants were treated with semaglutide for one year, and their weight loss was recorded at three-month intervals. The researchers found that individuals identified with the “hungry gut” phenotype experienced greater weight loss than those without it.
At the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, researchers created the MyPhenome test to categorize obesity phenotypes into four types: “hungry brain,” “hungry gut,” “emotional hunger,” and “slow burn.” This categorization helps tailor weight loss strategies more effectively. The study showed that “hungry gut” positive individuals lost significantly more weight over 9 to 12 months compared to “hungry gut” negative individuals.
The genetic test’s ability to predict responses to semaglutide with 75% accuracy could improve treatment decisions by targeting the underlying causes of obesity. This approach reduces the need for trial and error in medication use. Dr. Mitchell Roslin emphasized the severe health risks of obesity, noting that it significantly ages the body and increases the risk of heart disease.
Semaglutide is an expensive obesity treatment, often not covered by insurance. Knowing in advance whether it will be effective can help patients and doctors make better-informed decisions. While semaglutide can cause gastrointestinal side effects, these typically subside as the body adapts. Dr. Mir Ali highlighted the importance of starting with a low dose and increasing it gradually to minimize side effects.
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