What is the kid version of Ozempic?

GLP-1’s (Glucagon-like peptide-1) are a class of medications meant to lower blood glucose levels and manage metabolism. These medications were originally meant to treat type 2 diabetes but have gained popularity as a weight loss medication. GLP-1’s have also become a more common topic of conversation with adolescent patients. GLP-1’s have been approved by the FDA for children 12 years and over as a weight loss treatment option.

What do we do when weight management and eating disorder treatment collide?

Recently, we were invited to participate in a panel of medical and mental health practitioners at the Webster Groves Public Library to discuss weight management and eating disorders in children and adolescents.

Eating disorders don’t discriminate. Children of all ages, sexes, genders, and weight can struggle with disordered eating. It’s a common misconception that just because someone is in a larger body, their dieting practices don’t cross the line into disordered eating. Attempts at weight loss are usually praised, but it is common for people seeking GLP-1 treatment to also have eating disorders or body dissatisfaction.

A lot of eating disorder specialists believe in a “Healthy at Every Size” approach. This takes the focus off of weight loss and onto a person’s overall physical and mental well-being. This approach makes sure the patient doesn’t feel blamed or judged because of their weight. A child can feel ashamed of having to go to a doctor’s office to have a conversation about weight management. It’s important to be mindful of emotions that can come up for them during these conversations and be sensitive to them.

The numbers are alarming. Between 5.5% and 17.9% of adolescent girls and 0.6% to 2.4% of adolescent boys struggle with an eating disorder. In addition, about 1 in 5 children in the United States has pediatric obesity. Often, people with obesity also have some sort of eating disorder, which is why it’s important to understand how to treat these conditions together.

What are the side effects of taking GLP-1?

Obesity can cause a lot of other serious health issues. The presence of these other issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes is a major reason why reducing weight is important. Lifestyle changes are always the first approach, but in cases where that isn’t enough, GLP-1’s are an approved method for weight loss treatment in children 12 and up.

That being said, its important to know the side effects of taking GLP-1’s. These medications cause rapid weight loss and decreased appetite. If your child is not eating enough while on a GLP-1, the consequences can be low energy, dizziness, bloating, burping, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. It can also hinder their normal growth and development. Make sure to be fully informed about how to safely take a GLP-1 before starting your child on one.

Are weight loss medicines right for your child?

Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are usually the preferred first treatment for obesity. However, in more serious cases where lifestyle changes alone are not enough to reduce their weight, GLP-1’s can be considered. Screening for eating disorders or mental health conditions is highly recommended before starting a GLP-1. Because GLP-1’s cause rapid weight loss and decreased appetite, your child will be at very high risk of the symptoms listed above if they aren’t properly fueling their body. A therapist can help treat the emotional side of the disorder before GLP-1’s are considered.

Overall, the goal should be to make sure your child is thriving both physically and mentally!