Gen Z adolescents are turning to weight loss drug at a concerning rate
In this DML Report…
The number of teens and young adults using weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic has surged, with a study from Michigan Medicine and Truveta Research showing a nearly sevenfold increase from 2020 to 2023. In 2023, about 1 in 167 youths aged 10 to 22 used these GLP-1 receptor agonists, up from 1 in 1,141 in 2020. The study, analyzing data from over 77 million patients, found the highest usage among girls aged 15 to 17, with 1 in 83 using the drugs in 2023. These medications, originally developed for type 2 diabetes, mimic the GLP-1 hormone to suppress appetite and are increasingly prescribed for obesity, which affects over 20% of U.S. children and teens.
The rise in prescriptions comes amid growing concerns about long-term effects and access disparities. While Wegovy is FDA-approved for teens 12 and older with obesity, Ozempic is often used off-label for weight loss in this group. Experts warn that stopping the drugs can lead to weight regain, potentially requiring lifelong use, and side effects like nausea, vomiting, and rare risks of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis are under scrutiny.
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The trend reflects broader societal pressures and the obesity epidemic, but experts caution against over-reliance on medication. Lifestyle interventions remain critical, yet only 25% of teens with obesity receive recommended counseling. The drugs’ high cost—up to $1,000 monthly without insurance—further limits access, raising questions about equity and sustainability. Ongoing research aims to clarify long-term safety and efficacy in young patients, as the medical community grapples with balancing immediate benefits against potential risks.