The rise in popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonist weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic among adults has sparked increased interest in using similar treatments for children and teens. This is reflected in the sharp 594% increase in the number of teens and young adults using GLP-1 drugs between 2020 and 2023. However, the long-term effects of these drugs on children and adolescents remain uncertain.
For example, 15-year-old Jenny Arrellin, who has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), participated in a Wegovy study and experienced significant weight loss, reduced appetite, and changes in food preferences. Yet, while the drugs have shown short-term success, experts warn that using them for weight loss in children presents unique challenges, given their still-developing bodies.
Wegovy, approved for children aged 12 and older with obesity, has demonstrated positive results in terms of weight loss and reducing obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes. A study in The New England Journal of Medicine reported that teens using Wegovy lost an average of 16% of their body weight after 68 weeks. Yet, experts remain concerned about the potential long-term impacts on growing children, especially regarding brain development, hormonal changes, and overall physical growth.
The primary concern is that GLP-1 agonists may alter the brain’s reward system, particularly in adolescents, leading to potential issues like lethargy, a dampened ability to experience pleasure, or even an increased risk of depression. There are also concerns that continued use of these drugs could impact bone density, muscle mass, and height growth.
Additionally, there is the question of whether teens will need to stay on these medications for life to maintain their weight loss. Some doctors worry that stopping the medication may cause appetite to increase again, leading to weight regain. Research is ongoing to determine if lower maintenance doses could help maintain weight after reaching a goal weight.
Despite the concerns, using these medications in children could help improve mental health outcomes by addressing weight-related stigma and bullying. However, more extensive, long-term studies are needed to fully understand the effects of GLP-1 agonists on the developing bodies of children and adolescents.
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