New 23andMe Study Identifies Genetic Factors for GLP-1 Weight Loss and Side Effects

Genetic variants linked to efficacy and nausea risk of popular obesity drugs

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:49am

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A ghostly, glowing X-ray image revealing the internal structure of a GLP-1 receptor molecule, conceptually illustrating the genetic factors that influence how individuals respond to these obesity drugs.Genetic insights into the complex biological mechanisms behind the efficacy and side effects of popular obesity medications.Palo Alto Today

A new study from the 23andMe Research Institute has identified genetic predictors for the weight loss efficacy and side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications used to treat obesity. The findings provide insights into the substantial variability in patient responses to these widely prescribed drugs, laying the foundation for more personalized treatment approaches.

Why it matters

GLP-1 medications have transformed obesity treatment, but patients experience significant differences in weight loss and side effects. This research helps explain the genetic basis behind this variability, which could lead to more tailored prescribing and management of these therapies.

The details

Analyzing data from 27,885 individuals who have used GLP-1 drugs, the study found that genetic variants in the GLP1R and GIPR genes are associated with increased weight loss efficacy and a higher risk of nausea and vomiting, respectively. The GIPR association was specific to the medication tirzepatide, and not seen with semaglutide.

  • The study was published on April 8, 2026 in the journal Nature.

The players

23andMe Research Institute

A nonprofit medical research organization that enables people to access their genetic information and participate in large-scale research.

Adam Auton

Vice President of Human Genetics at the 23andMe Research Institute and an author of the study.

Noura Abul-Husn

Chief Medical Officer at the 23andMe Research Institute.

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What they’re saying

“The study demonstrates the incredible power of our crowdsourced research community to advance scientific understanding of human genetic variation.”

— Adam Auton, Vice President of Human Genetics

“While there is high interest in GLP-1 medications, there is significant variation in how well they work for different people. The market is crowded with weight loss support and medications, but the approach to weight management is typically one of trial and error. This can lead people to leap into treatment with a high degree of uncertainty and unrealistic expectations about efficacy and possible side effects.”

— Noura Abul-Husn, Chief Medical Officer

“The new GLP-1 report is a part of our Total Health service, where a clinician is part of the conversation. GLP-1 treatment decisions are complex and having access to clinical expertise to help contextualize your genetic results alongside your full health picture is exactly the kind of guidance this report is designed to support.”

— Noura Abul-Husn, Chief Medical Officer

What’s next

The 23andMe Research Institute has released a new GLP-1 Medications: Weight Loss and Nausea report as part of its Total Health service, providing personalized insights on weight loss and side effect risks based on genetics and other factors.

The takeaway

This study highlights the complex genetic factors that influence how individuals respond to popular obesity medications, underscoring the need for more personalized approaches to weight management treatment. The findings could lead to better prescribing and management of GLP-1 drugs, helping patients achieve their goals while minimizing side effects.