GLP-1 Drugs Prescribed Off-Label to Children as Young as 8 for Obesity Treatment in U.S.
A growing number of children in the U.S., some as young as 8, are being prescribed GLP-1 weight-loss drugs off-label to treat obesity. A study led by Babak Orandi at New York University found that 9.3% of children aged 8 to 11 with obesity but without diabetes are receiving these medications, a significant increase from 0.03% in 2019. While GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) are only approved for individuals aged 12 and older in the U.S., UK, and Australia, off-label prescriptions for younger children are occurring in line with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics. These prescriptions are more common in children with severe obesity or related complications such as pre-diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, and tend to be among wealthier families due to the high cost of the medication.