Use of Injectable GLP-1 Weight-loss Drugs Skyrockets Among Teens

A new class of weight-loss drugs known as GLP-1s, typically used for managing diabetes, has seen a massive increase in prescriptions for teens in the U.S., according to a recent study. These injectable drugs, mimicking a hormone that regulates hunger, trick the body into feeling full for longer, leading to reduced food intake. Since the FDA’s approval of GLP-1s for weight loss in 2021, their use among adolescents and young adults has surged by nearly 600% (Carpenter, ScienceNews.com). However, concerns remain about the long-term safety and effectiveness of these drugs, particularly since patients often regain weight once they stop taking them. As doctors weigh the benefits against potential risks, ongoing research is needed to ensure these powerful medications are prescribed responsibly and safely, especially for younger populations facing obesity (Carpenter, ScienceNews.com).

Carpenter, K. G. (2024). Use of injectable GLP-1 weight-loss drugs skyrockets among teens. ScienceNews.com. Retrieved from https://www.sciencenews.com