GLP-1 Medications for Obesity: A Parent's Guide

GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved weight-loss drugs for teens age 12+ with obesity. Two options are approved: Wegovy (weekly) and Saxenda (daily). Studies show they help teens lose 5-16% of body weight when combined with lifestyle changes. Dr. Caren Mangarelli, pediatric expert and medical director of Lurie Children's Wellness and Weight Management Program, explains what parents need to know about GLP-1 medications for adolescents. 

What are GLP-1 medications? 

Think of GLP-1 medications as helpers that work with your body's natural systems. They mimic a hormone that tells the brain "I'm full" and slows down how fast food leaves the stomach, as well as impacts blood sugar control. Originally created for diabetes, doctors discovered they also help with weight loss. The main ones you'll hear about: 

• Wegovy (semaglutide) - once weekly injection
• Saxenda (liraglutide) - daily injection
• Zepbound (tirzepatide) - once weekly injection (NOT yet approved for kids under 18) 

Two major studies found that liraglutide and semaglutide help adolescents lose 5-16% percent of their body fat, improve blood sugar control and get healthier overall. But it’s important to be clear that these medications alone are not a cure for chronic obesity, nor does every individual respond to them in the same way. These medications work best when combined with:  

• Healthy eating habits  
• Regular exercise  
• Restful sleep
• Counseling and support  
• Long-term lifestyle changes 

As we focus on treating obesity as a medical condition, it's equally important to remember that your child's worth has nothing to do with their weight. Treatment should be about improving health and quality of life, not about conforming to societal beauty standards or reinforcing harmful weight stigma.  

While GLP-1 medication prices are gradually coming down and availability is improving, these treatments remain frustratingly out of reach for many families who could benefit from them. This creates an unfortunate situation where effective treatment exists but isn't available to everyone who needs it, highlighting the urgent need for continued advocacy. 

Can kids take these medications? 

Two GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for teens aged 12 and up: Saxenda (liraglutide) and Wegovy (semaglutide). The American Academy of Pediatrics says to consider these medications for: 

• Teens over 12 years old with obesity (strongly encouraged as part of comprehensive treatment) as well as the medical complications that often come alongside the disease of obesity. 

Are these medications safe? 

They are generally safe and have been studied specifically in teenagers, but like any medication, they may come with side effects. Common side effects may include: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Constipation 

The good news is that these symptoms usually get better over time, especially if you start with a low dose and increase slowly. While current evidence shows these medications are safe in the short to medium term, we don't yet have decades of data on what happens to kids who take GLP-1 medications throughout their childhood and into adulthood. 

What about nutrition? Will my child eat enough? 

This is an important concern for parents and caregivers. GLP-1 medications work partly by suppressing appetite. Before prescribing and throughout treatment, healthcare providers should:  

• Review current nutrition habits  
• Educate adolescents and families about healthful nutrition intake
• Emphasize regular meals with adequate protein despite loss of appetite
• Ensure adequate water intake 

It's also crucial to assess emotional health and the possibility of disordered eating before starting any obesity treatment, including medication. 

What if we want to stop the medication later? 

Always work with your doctor on this. They can help create a plan to minimize weight regain, which often happens when people stop these medications. The plan might include gradually de-escalating the medication dose, considering alternative medications, intensified lifestyle support and more frequent check-ins. 

What are the next steps? 

If your family wants to know more about GLP-1 medications, talk to your doctor. Here are some questions to ask: 

1. Is my child a good candidate for GLP-1 medication?
2. Does my insurance cover the medication and what might be our families out of pocket cost for the medication?
3. Which medication do you recommend?
4. What side effects should we watch for?
5. How will we monitor progress and safety?
6. What lifestyle changes need to happen?
7. How long would treatment last?
8. What support is available for our family? 

If you're considering GLP-1 medications for your child, the most important step is to have an open, honest conversation with a qualified healthcare provider who can evaluate your child's individual situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks and help develop a personalized treatment plan.  

Remember: obesity is a chronic disease that often starts early during childhood. With proper treatment, which may include medication alongside lifestyle changes and psychosocial support, children and adolescents can achieve meaningful improvements in their health, quality of life and long-term wellbeing. 

Learn more about our Pediatric Wellness & Weight Management Program

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