GLP-1s for Children: Benefits & Safety in T2D/Obesity

September 15, 2025 Jennifer Chen Health
News Context
At a glance
  • Childhood obesity currently affects approximately⁤ 1 ⁢in 5 ⁢children and‍ adolescents younger than 18 years, a figure that has been steadily rising alongside an increase in type⁢ 2...
  • the approval of these medications, coupled with updated pediatric guidelines, has led to a significant increase in GLP-1 use⁣ for both T2D and obesity in children ⁣and adolescents...
  • Given the rising use of GLP-1s among⁤ youth, concerns regarding their psychological impacts are warranted.
Original source: pharmacytimes.com

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<a href="https://www.newsdirectory3.com/unlock-the-power-of-plant-based-polyphenols-your-key-to-a-lower-risk-of-obesity-and-diabetes/" title="Unlock the Power of Plant-Based Polyphenols: Your Key to a Lower Risk of Obesity and Diabetes">GLP-1 Receptor Agonists</a> in Pediatric Diabetes and Obesity


GLP-1 Receptor⁤ Agonists: A Growing⁣ Treatment for Childhood Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Table of Contents

Overview and Treatment Options for ⁢Childhood⁢ Obesity

Childhood obesity currently affects approximately⁤ 1 ⁢in 5 ⁢children and‍ adolescents younger than 18 years, a figure that has been steadily rising alongside an increase in type⁢ 2 diabetes (T2D) cases. Historically, treatment for⁤ T2D in children was limited to metformin and insulin. However, since 2019, the FDA⁤ has approved several glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s) for use‍ in this patient population, ⁢including liraglutide (Victoza; Novo Nordisk), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy; Novo Nordisk),⁤ dulaglutide (Trulicity; Eli Lilly and Company), and extended-release exenatide (Bydureon BCise; Amylin Pharmaceuticals).

the approval of these medications, coupled with updated pediatric guidelines, has led to a significant increase in GLP-1 use⁣ for both T2D and obesity in children ⁣and adolescents between 2020 and 2023. Furthermore, tirzepatide, a dual-action medication targeting both GLP-1 and⁢ GIP receptors, is currently being investigated for potential use in the same⁣ population. This represents a significant shift in the therapeutic ‍landscape⁣ for pediatric metabolic ⁤disorders.

Given the rising use of GLP-1s among⁤ youth, concerns regarding their psychological impacts are warranted. Suicide rates are a‍ growing public health issue,‍ with approximately 17% of US youth reporting suicidal ideation and 7% to 8% attempting suicide annually. ⁤Careful monitoring and consideration of mental health ⁢are crucial when prescribing these medications.

Safety and Efficacy of ⁢GLP-1s‍ in ⁣Children and Adolescents

To comprehensively assess the ‍efficacy and safety of GLP-1s in children and adolescents under 18⁤ years⁢ with obesity, prediabetes,⁣ or T2D, researchers⁢ conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 18 randomized clinical trials. These trials were identified through