The weight loss drug semaglutide (Wegovy) is now approved for pediatric patients ages 12 and older whose body mass index (BMI) is at or over the 95th percentile for their age and sex (considered obese). The most recent American Academy of Pediatrics clinical practice guidelines state that medication can be used in children and adolescents as part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan (see https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/151/2/e2022060640/190443/Clinica).

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist; GLP-1 receptors regulate appetite and caloric intake. Semaglutide also delays gastric emptying, extending the sensation of fullness. Previously approved for weight loss in obese adults, semaglutide was approved for pediatric patients based on results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 201 obese children ages 12 and older. After 68 weeks of treatment, those receiving semaglutide had a statistically significant reduction in BMI compared with those taking placebo.

Adverse effects of semaglutide in this age group are similar to those for adults. The drug is generally well tolerated, although gastrointestinal discomfort can occur. The cost of semaglutide is reported to be $1,349 for 28 days, which may make the therapy financially out of reach for many families.

To see the Medical Letter news brief on semaglutide for weight loss in children, go to https://secure.medicalletter.org/TML-article-1670d. Please note, parts of this website require a subscription.

For complete prescribing information for semaglutide, go to http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215256s005lbl.pdf.