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Scientists seek answers for why some people do not lose weight on GLP-1 drugs

Researchers are investigating individual responses to GLP-1 medications after studies show that 10 to 15 percent of users gain minimal or no weight.

GLP-1 drugs fail to help some people lose weight — scientists are on a quest for answers
File photo GLP-1 drugs fail to help some people lose weight — scientists are on a quest for answers Photo: Nature

High success rates for most users

Most people taking these popular drugs shed substantial amounts of body weight. One study found that the average loss equals one-quarter of a person's total body weight.

Significant variation in patient outcomes

A specific group of 10 to 15 percent loses minimal weight or none at all despite taking the medication. Scientists describe this response as tremendous heterogeneity that the field currently does not understand.

Search for biological explanations continues

Researchers are looking into factors such as biological sex, genetics, and behavioural differences to explain the gap in results. Solving this mystery could lead to new medications for those who do not benefit from current versions.

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