Genetic Profile Key To Novo Nordisk's Wegovy's Weight-Loss Effectiveness, Study Reveals

Researchers highlighted on Monday that certain genes may help identify patients with obesity who are most likely to respond strongly to Novo Nordisk A/S’s NVO weight-loss drug Wegovy (semaglutide).

The study, presented at the Digestive Disease Week meeting in Washington, found a 95% likelihood that patients with this genetic profile would be strong responders to the treatment.

Related: Changing Frugal Eating Habits-How Novo Nordisk/Eli Lilly’s Weight Loss Drugs Reshaping Food Spending.

The study involved 84 patients prescribed Wegovy for obesity. 

Those with the genetic variants associated with a “hungry gut” lost an average of 14.4% of their body weight after nine months and 19.5% after a year. 

By comparison, participants without this genetic profile lost 10.3% of their body weight after nine months and did not lose additional weight by the 12-month mark.

Citing Dr. Andres Acosta of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, Reuters highlighted the significance of these findings. 

Given Wegovy’s high cost, these genetic markers could be used to identify patients most likely to benefit from the drug. 

Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, has a monthly list price of $1,349.02.

The concept of a “hungry gut” relates to individuals who feel full during a meal but quickly become hungry again as food leaves their stomach faster than in most people. This genetic profile appears to influence the effectiveness of Wegovy significantly.

Acosta noted that similar patterns were observed in patients taking liraglutide, another weight-loss drug Novo Nordisk marketed under Victoza and Saxenda.

While patients without the “hungry gut” genes did experience some weight loss with Wegovy, Acosta suggested they might achieve similar results with less expensive therapies. This insight could guide more cost-effective treatment decisions for obesity management.

The researchers emphasized the need for larger studies to verify the reliability of the “hungry gut” genetic profile across more diverse populations. 

If validated, this approach could enhance personalized treatment plans for obesity, ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and effective interventions.

Read Next: No Wegovy Shortage in Denmark Amid High Demand, Novo Nordisk Confirms.

Price Action: NVO shares are down 0.21% at $131.61 at last check Monday.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Wegovy. Image Via Shutterstock