Why do GLP-1 medications help some people lose a lot of weight while others tap out early from side effects, especially nausea? In this new episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Andres Acosta of the Mayo Clinic shares the next leap in obesity care: using genetics and machine learning to predict who is more likely to experience GLP-1 side effects on Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Zepbound and who is primed to respond well. (Of course, right now, this is only short-term side effects.)
👉 Listen to the full episode
What You Will Learn
*Why obesity is not one condition and how phenotypes shape treatment choices
*The most common patient questions about GLP-1 drugs and GI side effects
*How big a problem nausea and GI upset are in real life and what to do about it
*Early data on genetic markers and satiation scores that may predict intolerance and response
*How eating style and nutrition coaching can reduce side effects while using GLP-1s
*Whether genetic testing before prescribing GLP-1s is coming to clinics
*What we know about rarer side effects and what signals Dr. Acosta is watching next
*Why prevention, food environment, and stigma still matter even as GLP-1s dominate headlines
👉 Hear the discussion
Why This Matters
Precision medicine for obesity is moving from idea to clinic. If we can flag who is likely to struggle with side effects before treatment begins, we can match the right therapy to the right person, improve adherence, and save people from trial-and-error frustration. It also keeps the focus on compassionate, individualized care, not just the latest headline.
About Dr. Andres Acosta
Dr. Acosta is a Consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Mayo Clinic, Associate Professor of Medicine, and co-founder of Phenomix Sciences. His research centers on gastrointestinal physiology, satiation, and the complex biology of food intake as they relate to obesity.
Quick FAQ
Do GLP-1 drugs work the same for everyone?
No. Baseline biology, genetics, and phenotype matter.
Who is most likely to get side effects like nausea?
That is exactly what Dr. Acosta’s team is modeling with genetic markers and machine learning, alongside practical coaching on diet pattern.
Will doctors order a genetic test before prescribing GLP-1s?
Possibly. The goal is to predict intolerance and response to guide a smarter first choice.
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