Leena Watts
Diet pills are a controversial topic, with many arguing that they should not be sold to minors. Despite this, thousands of prescriptions for weight loss drugs have been written for children in recent years. In 2023, for example, thousands of prescriptions for semaglutide, sold under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, were written for children aged 12 to 17. This trend is not limited to the United States, with similar stories emerging from other parts of the world. While some argue that these medications are necessary to help adolescents manage their weight, others warn of the potential side effects and aggressive marketing targeting young people. As a result, stronger regulations have been advocated to restrict the sale of diet pills to those under 18.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age restriction | 18 years or older |
| Reasoning | Young people are vulnerable to body image pressure and aggressive marketing |
| Location | New York State |
| Side effects | Dehydration, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, fatigue |
| Interactions | MAO inhibitors, sympathomimetics, alcohol, adrenergic neuron-blocking drugs, anesthetic agents |
| Contraindications | Pregnancy |
| Administration | Oral, subcutaneous injection |
| Effectiveness | Pills and injections are equally effective |
| Treatment plan | Medication, diet, exercise, and/or surgery |
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What You'll Learn
Weight loss drugs are being prescribed to teens
Obesity in children and teens is a growing problem in the US, affecting nearly one in five individuals aged 2 to 19 years. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has, for the first time, included anti-obesity medications in their recommended guidelines for treating childhood obesity. This has led to an increase in weight-loss drug prescriptions for teens.
One such prescription medication is Wegovy, which has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in 12- to 18-year-olds with obesity. It is designed to suppress appetite and is meant to be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. Common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and dehydration.
Another medication that has been approved for teens 16 years and older is a combination of phentermine and topiramate. This medication also suppresses appetite and has been shown to result in statistically significant weight loss when used in conjunction with lifestyle therapy. Side effects may include paresthesia, dry mouth, constipation, insomnia, and anxiety.
While these medications can be effective in treating obesity in teens, they should be used with caution. There is limited data on the long-term effects of these medications on adolescents, and they may need to be taken indefinitely to maintain weight loss. Additionally, over-the-counter diet pills and supplements are not recommended for teens as they are often untested and can cause unwanted side effects.
It is important for teens and their parents to discuss the benefits and risks of weight-loss medications with their doctor and to ensure that any medication is taken as directed. Lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and physical activity, are still the foundation for supporting a healthy weight.
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The dangers of weight loss products for minors
Weight loss products can be dangerous for minors, and their use is associated with negative physical and psychological outcomes. The weight loss supplement industry is largely unregulated, and products are widely available to anyone. This has resulted in nearly one in ten adolescents globally turning to nonprescribed weight loss products, such as diet pills, laxatives, diuretics, and fitness supplements.
In addition to the physical risks, there are also psychological dangers associated with minors using weight loss products. Minors may develop eating disorders, experience low self-esteem, or become susceptible to the marketing of these products on social media, which can negatively impact their mental health and self-image.
Furthermore, the long-term effects of weight loss medications on adolescents are unknown, and there is a concern that starting these medications at a young age could lead to a lifetime of treatment with greater risks. Experts emphasize that the decision to recommend weight-loss drugs for minors should depend on the severity of each case and the impact of weight on the individual's overall health.
To address these dangers, interventions and regulations are necessary to protect minors from the risks associated with weight loss products. For instance, New York State passed a law in 2023 banning the sale of diet and fitness supplements to minors, recognizing the potential harm these products can cause to young people.
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Teenagers are vulnerable to body image pressures
While laws and regulations surrounding the sale of diet pills to minors exist, teenagers remain vulnerable to body image pressures, which can lead them to seek out weight loss drugs and other unhealthy behaviours. This vulnerability is influenced by various factors, including media exposure, peer comparisons, and personal factors such as low self-esteem and feelings of depression.
Research has found that exposure to unrealistic 'ideal' bodies through film, television, magazines, advertising, and social media can contribute to body image issues in teenagers. Social media platforms, in particular, have been linked to the development of severe mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, body dysmorphic disorder, and eating disorders. The pressure to achieve high beauty standards on social media can result in unhealthy lifestyle behaviours and reinforce negative thought patterns in young people. For example, one study found that almost 50% of girls reported frequently worrying about their bodies, with girls spending more time on social media than boys. Additionally, celebrities and influencers on social media can contribute to body image concerns, with 25% of young people surveyed saying that celebrities influenced their worries about their body image.
Peer comparisons and bullying also play a significant role in body image pressures among teenagers. Bullying can lead to negative feedback on physical appearance, causing individuals to engage in shame-promoting behaviours, such as covering their bodies with baggy clothing or hiding specific body parts due to hurtful comments. Furthermore, comparisons with peers can foster feelings of inadequacy and contribute to a negative body image.
Personal factors, such as low self-esteem and feelings of depression, can also make teenagers more susceptible to body image pressures. When teenagers struggle with their body image, it can lead to unhealthy eating habits, dieting, and an unhealthy relationship with exercise. Additionally, body dissatisfaction and pressure to conform to an 'ideal' body type have been linked to depressive symptoms and anxiety disorders, particularly in those who do not match societal views of the 'perfect' body.
The internalisation of unrealistic beauty standards can have severe consequences for teenagers. For example, research has found a correlation between weight and body mass index (BMI) and body dissatisfaction, with overweight or obese youth reporting greater depressive symptoms and lower self-esteem. Furthermore, studies have suggested that body image concerns may be a risk factor for self-harm and suicidal thoughts among young people, especially those engaging in extreme weight control behaviours.
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Weight loss drugs can cause side effects
In the United States, weight loss drugs are available by prescription or over the counter as pills or injections. While these drugs can be effective in helping people lose weight, they can also cause various side effects. It is important to note that the eligibility for weight loss medications is typically based on body mass index (BMI) and the presence of certain health conditions.
One of the most widely used weight loss medications is phentermine, which has been available since 1959. Phentermine works by decreasing hunger and can be combined with topiramate to increase its efficacy. However, side effects of phentermine include headache, overstimulation, high blood pressure, insomnia, rapid or irregular heart rate, and tremors. It is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or heart disease.
Other weight loss drugs, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, have also been associated with side effects. A 2023 analysis found that 68% of people taking these medications stopped within a year, with 4.5% discontinuing due to side effects. Common side effects of semaglutide and liraglutide include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Additionally, these drugs can cause bloating, heartburn, belching, and an increased risk of pancreatitis.
It is important to note that weight loss drugs are not a quick fix and should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan. They are often intended for long-term use, as stopping the medication can lead to rapid weight regain. Before taking any weight loss medication, individuals should consult their doctor and be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with their use.
In the case of minors, the decision to prescribe weight loss medication is even more delicate. While some medications, such as Wegovy, have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in 12- to 18-year-olds, it is crucial to carefully consider the potential benefits against the risks of side effects. Demi Buckley, a 16-year-old who was prescribed Wegovy, experienced side effects such as dizziness and dehydration, which are common with this medication.
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The effectiveness of weight loss pills
Weight loss pills are effective, but they are not a magic bullet. They are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. While some people have been helped by weight loss drugs in the short run, the weight tends to return. Some weight loss medications are meant for short-term use only.
There are several different weight loss medications, some pills, and some injections. Each works in a slightly different manner, but most reduce a person's appetite. The exact mechanism by which these drugs affect appetite is unclear because appetite is influenced by a person's blood sugar, gut physiology, mood, stress levels, and more. A few medications do not affect appetite; for example, orlistat works by decreasing the absorption of fat.
The newer generation of weight loss pills is considered more effective than the previous one. However, it is important to have realistic expectations. These pills are approved for people with diabetes and very high BMIs. People with a BMI of 28 who carry most of their excess weight around their waistline (central obesity) and also have diabetes are good candidates for weight loss pills.
Prescription weight loss medications work in one or more of the following ways. GLP-1 agonists are the most effective medications for weight loss. Current GLP-1 agonists approved for weight loss include Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda. Other medications, such as Ozempic, may be prescribed for weight loss, although that is not their intended use.
Some common side effects of weight loss pills include gastrointestinal issues, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, cramping, and dizziness. It is important to remember that no one drug works for all people, and individuals should consult their doctor before taking any medication.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, in New York State, it is illegal to sell diet pills and supplements to those under the age of 18.
Diet pills are underreregulated and could have harmful health effects on children. They are also often marketed to kids who may feel uncomfortable about their appearance, and experts have warned that weight-loss products should not be sold to under-18s.
Behavioural and lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, are considered the first line of treatment for children and teens.
