Weight-Loss Medications in Pediatrics: Promoting Health and Not Harm

I recently co-authored an article in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, titled “Weight-loss medications: promoting health and not harm" with adolescent medicine leaders from Brown University, University of California Davis and University of California San Diego.

Our article highlights the need for caution before prescribing weight-loss medications to children and adolescents, given the unknown long-term effects, potential impact on developing bodies, and the risk of exacerbating weight stigma. In this article, we call for a pause in widespread prescribing until more research is available. We also emphasize the importance of safe, thoughtful prescribing if these medications are used and outline key considerations that we recommend prior to prescribing GLP-1 receptor agonists in children. You can find a link to the article here: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(24)00354-7/abstract

As always, please reach out with questions, concerns and for additional information.