A recent study has shown that liraglutide, a drug approved to treat obesity in adults and teens, is safe and effective for children as young as 6 when combined with diet and exercise. The research, presented at a medical conference and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, demonstrated that the drug helped lower body mass, slow weight gain, and improve health markers in kids ages 6 through 11. These results have prompted drugmaker Novo Nordisk to request an expansion of the medication’s use for this age group, potentially providing a new treatment option for the most common type of obesity affecting children.
However, it is important to note that side effects were common among those who received the drug, particularly gastrointestinal effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Experts caution that doctors and parents should carefully consider these risks, as well as the lack of long-term data on the use of such drugs in young children. Dr. Melissa Crocker, a pediatric obesity specialist, emphasized the need for caution in prescribing the medication, especially for younger children. Liraglutide is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 drugs, which includes other well-known treatments like Wegovy and Mounjaro. These drugs work by mimicking hormones that affect appetite, feelings of fullness, and digestion.
The study, funded by Novo Nordisk, included 82 children with obesity-related health problems such as insulin resistance, asthma, or early puberty. Participants received daily injections of liraglutide for nearly 13 months, along with individual counseling for a healthy diet and regular exercise. The results showed that children who took the drug experienced a reduction in their body mass index and slowed weight gain compared to those who received a placebo. Additionally, improvements in blood pressure and blood sugar levels were observed in the children who received the drug. Despite these positive outcomes, side effects were reported in nearly 90% of participants, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most common.
The trial has since been extended to include further treatment and follow-up, with results expected in 2027. Researcher Dr. Claudia Fox, who led the study, receives funding from Novo Nordisk, and the company is also conducting trials with more powerful injections in children as young as 6. Dr. Alaina Vidmar, a pediatric obesity specialist, has used liraglutide off-label to treat young children and supports the approval of the drug for this age group to increase access to effective treatment options. Overall, the drug aims to treat the underlying physiology of obesity, a chronic disease that can have serious health implications for children if left untreated.
Experts emphasize the importance of early intervention in addressing childhood obesity to prevent long-term health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Dr. Vidmar stresses the need for proactive measures to ensure children have long and healthy lives, stating that doing nothing is not the right answer when it comes to managing obesity. The study’s findings highlight the potential benefits of using liraglutide in children as young as 6, but careful consideration of side effects and long-term effects is essential in determining the appropriate use of the medication in pediatric patients.
