The debate over GLP1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy is getting personal, especially when it comes to children.
On one side, parents online are asking a blunt question: have we tried diet, exercise and consistent lifestyle changes first?
Many argue that for able bodied kids and adults, hard work and healthy habits should come before an injection, and that pushing quick fix serums on children is a worrying trend.
Doctors say the reality is more complicated.The FDA has approved liraglutide and semaglutide for weight loss in adolescents 12 and older, always to be used with diet and exercise, not instead of it.
A new trial in kids aged 6 to 12 showed BMI dropped and blood sugar improved, but also more nausea, vomiting and serious side effects.
Researchers at UC Irvine warn that children are still growing,cutting calories too sharply with GLP1s could affect growth, development, and emotional health, and may increase risk of disordered eating.
Other pediatric obesity specialists say for severely obese teens, these drugs can be life changing, bringing them back onto growth charts and preventing diabetes.
The consensus remains: there is no silver bullet,medication may have a role for some children, but lifestyle, counseling and family support are still central.
