Research Shows Increase in Weight-Loss Drug Prescriptions for Young Children
New research reveals that weight-loss drugs, previously prescribed mainly to adults, are now increasingly given to young children. A study led by New York University researchers focused on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) like Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound for U.S. children aged 8 to 11 with obesity but without diabetes.
The researchers analyzed data from the Epic Cosmos electronic health record network, covering over 3.5 million children. They tracked GLP-1 prescriptions from January 2019 to June 2026. They discovered a significant rise in prescriptions from 0.03 percent of eligible children in 2019 to 9.3 percent in 2026—a 310-fold increase. Despite this growth, only 0.6 percent of the children studied ever received a prescription.
Although some GLP-1 drugs have FDA approval for adolescents 12 and older, no drug is currently approved for children under 12. However, professional guidelines suggest that younger patients with significant health risks may be considered for these medications. The study indicates these drugs are mainly prescribed to children with severe obesity and related health issues. About 94 percent of children given GLP-1 drugs had severe obesity compared to roughly 52 percent of non-users.
“Diet, physical activity, and behavioral support are the foundation,” said Dr. Babak J. Orandi, lead investigator, emphasizing lifestyle measures as the initial step before considering drugs.
He suggests medications when a child develops obesity-related complications or lifestyle changes have been insufficient. Parents are advised to consult pediatricians if lifestyle interventions don’t yield results or weight-related health issues arise.
Children with conditions like prediabetes, hypertension, liver disease, hyperlipidemia, and sleep apnea showed higher prescribing rates. Patterns varied across demographics, with older children and girls receiving more prescriptions. Children from areas with lower social vulnerability were more likely to get prescriptions, pointing to potential inequities in access.
The study relied on electronic health record prescriptions, which might not reflect medication dispensation or adherence. The data source, while broad, isn’t representative of all U.S. health systems. Questions about long-term medication use in children remain. Preliminary data seem positive, but further follow-up is needed to understand risks and benefits better.
Dr. Orandi noted that untreated childhood obesity has well-established risks like diabetes, hypertension, liver disease, sleep apnea, joint issues, and higher risk of early death. Addressing obesity in childhood offers a chance to reduce these risks significantly, underscoring the importance of timely intervention.