Physicians Prescribe GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medications to Children

Board-certified physician Dr. Rhea Rogers stated that weight-loss medications known as GLP-1s are increasingly being prescribed to children. Rogers, who hosts the program Aging Untold, said these drugs, which have gained popularity among adults, are now part of pediatric treatment plans in some cases.

The primary candidates for the medication are children with a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile. Experts indicate that lifestyle changes alone have not produced results for these patients. The drugs are also utilized for diabetes patients aged 10 and older. Additional criteria include the presence of hormone problems that require medical intervention.

Rogers explained that genetics and hormonal dysregulation sometimes make standard advice insufficient. She noted that when a child becomes significantly overweight, the body undergoes hormonal changes that complicate weight management. Rogers described GLP-1 agonists as effective in reducing what she terms food noise and food chatter. She also characterized the medications as anti-inflammatory tools that help patients manage these physiological shifts.

Students at Magnolia Woods Elementary in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, are participating in a statewide initiative to lower obesity rates. The curriculum focuses on healthy eating habits and regular exercise. Rogers acknowledged that these foundational steps are necessary, but she noted that some children require additional support beyond diet and movement. She emphasized that the medication is a tool rather than a miracle drug, meaning providers must address the entire clinical scenario.

The cost of GLP-1s remains a barrier for many families. For patients who cannot afford the medication or who choose to avoid it, the current recommendation is to maintain well-balanced meals and a healthy lifestyle. Rogers said some individuals need a little more help due to their specific hormonal profiles. The medication serves as an adjunct to other health strategies for those who meet the clinical criteria.

The information presented by Rogers is for educational purposes and does not constitute professional medical advice. Families seeking personal guidance are encouraged to consult with a licensed physician. Providers advise that these drugs be used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan rather than as a standalone solution. The goal is to manage the underlying conditions that drive weight gain in pediatric patients.