CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The surge in popularity of weight loss medications among teenagers and pre-teens raises new questions about their long-term safety and effectiveness. Although health professionals report success stories, the future ramifications of these treatments remain uncertain.
The Food and Drug Administration greenlit the use of certain weight loss drugs for children starting at age 12 nearly three years ago, igniting discussions among parents and healthcare providers about the appropriate interventions for young patients. For Malya Jones, the decision to start medication was a significant one, weighed heavily by both her and her mother. Malya has struggled with her weight for years, trying various methods of diet and exercise without seeing lasting results. “I’ve felt overweight for as long as I can remember,” Malya said, reflecting on the emotional impact of her struggles.
Her mother, Marthe Jones, observed the toll this has taken on her daughter’s mental well-being. “Seeing her so upset about her weight was heartbreaking,” she said. At her heaviest, Malya weighed 230 pounds and faced health issues relating to her blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Since beginning treatment, she notes improvements in both her physical health and her self-esteem. “The medication has really boosted my energy and confidence,” she added.
The active ingredient in many of these weight loss drugs, including Ozempic and Wegovy, is semaglutide. Since its introduction, prescriptions for semaglutide among teenagers and young adults have skyrocketed by nearly 600%. Dr. Jessica Riley, a pediatric obesity specialist, underscores the effectiveness of these medications, highlighting their role in regulating appetite and enhancing insulin production. “These medications address both hunger and metabolic function,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Daniel Hsia of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is conducting research on GLP-1 drugs, which help manage hunger and blood sugar. “We’ve seen a remarkable transformation in these treatments,” Hsia said, but he cautioned that the long-term effects remain largely unknown. Researchers are particularly concerned about the potential risks of undernutrition and the impact on developing bodies and brains.
To better understand the implications, Hsia’s study will track participants for up to five years throughout critical growth phases. He emphasizes the necessity for careful monitoring of their health, particularly during puberty.
While some adverse effects, such as nausea and gastrointestinal issues, have been noted, studies also indicate that these medications can reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Many families believe the benefits outweigh these potential drawbacks. Charlotte Kaplan, aged 15, shared her experience of being pre-diabetic before starting medication. “I was struggling with lifestyle changes,” she said. “Now, I feel healthier and more positive.”
Charlotte’s mother, Tori Kaplan, expressed pride in her daughter’s transformation, noting improvements in both her physical and emotional state. “The joy we’ve witnessed in her is incredible,” Tori said.
Cost remains a significant barrier for many families, with some spending upwards of $700 monthly on treatments. Others pay a fraction of that amount, but insurance coverage varies greatly. It is advisable for families to thoroughly research their options, as some manufacturers offer financial assistance based on income.
As the discussion surrounding weight loss medications continues, the complexity of their effects on young individuals is becoming clearer, alongside the hope they offer to those struggling with obesity.