Youth Prescriptions for Weight-Loss Drugs Surge 600% Since 2020

The use of weight-loss drugs like Wegovy has surged nearly 600% among adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 25 from 2020 to 2023, according to new research. These medications, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, are increasingly prescribed to combat obesity, which affects 20% of U.S. children and adolescents. The rise in prescriptions comes amid recommendations for early and aggressive treatment of obesity in young people, including medication and surgery. Despite their effectiveness, concerns remain about the long-term safety and high costs of these drugs.