AI Insight
Researchers have identified genetic variants that reduce responsiveness to GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, such as Ozempic, used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Approximately 10% of the population carries these variants, which cause what researchers describe as "GLP-1 resistance." Clinical trial data shows that individuals with these genetic variants were significantly less likely to achieve target blood sugar levels when treated with GLP-1 medications compared to those without the variants.
Why it matters
This discovery could enable genetic screening to identify patients who may not respond well to GLP-1 drugs, allowing physicians to prescribe alternative treatments from the outset and avoid ineffective therapy. Understanding the genetic basis of drug resistance may also guide development of modified medications or personalized treatment strategies for the 10% of people carrying these variants.
Scientists have identified genetic variants that may make some people less responsive to GLP-1 drugs used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Roughly 10% of the population carries these variants, which appear to cause a mysterious form of “GLP-1 resistance.” In several clinical trials, carriers were significantly less likely to reach healthy blood sugar targets while taking GLP-1 medications.
Source: Scientists discover why ozempic may not work for some people