1 Rising Trend in Adolescent Obesity: Teenagers Turning to Weight Loss Medications

The number of teenagers using weight loss medications is on the rise, influenced by the approval of Wegovy for adolescents as young as 12 and revised guidelines for treating childhood obesity from a prominent medical organization.

Personal Struggles and New Solutions

Demi Buckley, a 16-year-old from Saginaw, Michigan, faced frustration as her efforts to lose weight through diet and exercise proved futile. “It was really discouraging to watch other girls do the same workouts as me,” she shared. Her mother, Deana, who had struggled with her own weight and had undergone bariatric surgery, found success with Mounjaro, a diabetes medication often used off-label for weight loss. This success motivated Demi to try Wegovy in March 2023, shortly after its approval for teens. Since then, she has lost 58 pounds, dramatically improving her physical and mental health.

Similarly, 15-year-old Brenden Gallagher from Los Angeles saw his depression linked to his weight diminish after starting Mounjaro off-label three months ago. He has since lost 25 pounds, leading to increased confidence and participation in activities.

Growing Popularity and Medical Endorsements

Demi and Brenden are part of a growing trend among teenagers using weight loss medications. Data from PurpleLab shows that in 2023, approximately 4,000 prescriptions of semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy and Ozempic) were written for children aged 12 to 17. This trend aligns with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) updated guidelines, which now include anti-obesity medications for treating children aged 12 and older. While lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise remain primary treatments, medications are now an option when these efforts fall short.

Expert Opinions on Obesity Treatment

Dr. Joan Han, chief of pediatric endocrinology and diabetes at Mount Sinai Health System, emphasizes the significant role genetics play in weight management. “Sheer willpower is not necessarily going to fix excess weight gain,” she explained. Dr. Sheela Magge from Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights the importance of early treatment, noting the rising cases of severe obesity-related conditions in children. Conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, once seen mostly in adults, are now increasingly common in young patients.

The Efficacy of GLP-1 Agonists

GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide, found in Wegovy and other medications, have shown promise in treating obesity. These medications are effective and have a relatively mild side effect profile compared to other weight loss drugs. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Despite these, the potential benefits are significant for those struggling with obesity.

Concerns and Challenges

The AAP’s recommendations have sparked debate, particularly among groups concerned about eating disorders and potential impacts on growth and development. Dr. Dan Cooper, a pediatric pulmonologist at UCI Health, has voiced concerns, urging careful consideration before prescribing these medications to children.

Cost and insurance coverage are also significant barriers. Candice Mott from Washington, D.C., struggled to get insurance coverage for her daughter Jamison, who needed the medication due to elevated liver enzymes and obesity. Dr. Magge has often faced similar challenges, with insurance companies frequently denying coverage for weight loss medications.

Comprehensive Approach to Treatment

Dr. Magge emphasizes that a thorough evaluation is conducted before prescribing weight loss medication, considering factors such as home life, family history of obesity, and related health conditions. “It’s not like we just throw medicine at them without saying, ‘Exercise,'” she said. These medications are part of a comprehensive approach to treating obesity, supplementing lifestyle modifications when necessary. The increasing use of weight loss medications among teenagers reflects a shift in addressing childhood obesity. With careful medical oversight and a balanced approach, these medications can play a crucial role in managing obesity and its associated health risks. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks and ensure that these treatments are part of a comprehensive strategy.

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