Study Shows Most Effective Obesity Treatments for Children
Obesity is a growing concern among children and teens, with rates of childhood obesity more than tripling in the past three decades. As a result, healthcare providers are seeking effective treatments to help young people manage their weight and reduce their risk of developing serious health problems. A recent study published in Obesity Reviews sheds light on the most effective medications for treating obesity in children and teens, finding that phentermine/topiramate, liraglutide, and metformin are the top choices when paired with lifestyle changes.
The study, which analyzed data from 24 clinical trials involving over 6,000 children and teens, aimed to identify the most effective medications for obesity treatment in this age group. Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, reviewed the results of these trials to determine the medications’ impact on weight, body mass index (BMI), and blood sugar levels.
Phentermine/Topiramate: A Winning Combination
Phentermine/topiramate, a medication combination marketed under the brand name Qsymia, emerged as one of the most effective treatments for childhood obesity. The study found that children taking phentermine/topiramate experienced significant weight loss, with an average reduction of 8.4% in body weight over a 12-week period. Additionally, the medication improved BMI and blood sugar levels, making it a promising option for young people struggling with obesity.
Phentermine/topiramate works by reducing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness, allowing children to eat less and maintain weight loss over time. The medication is typically prescribed in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, making it an effective tool for long-term weight management.
Liraglutide: Another Effective Option
Liraglutide, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, also showed impressive results in the study. Children taking liraglutide, marketed under the brand name Saxenda, experienced an average weight loss of 7.3% over a 12-week period. The medication also improved BMI and blood sugar levels, making it a viable option for young people struggling with obesity.
Liraglutide works by slowing the movement of food through the stomach and reducing hunger. The medication is typically prescribed in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, and has been shown to be effective in long-term weight management.
Metformin: A Safe and Effective Choice
Metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, is another effective option for treating obesity in children and teens. The study found that children taking metformin experienced an average weight loss of 5.6% over a 12-week period. The medication also improved BMI and blood sugar levels, making it a safe and effective choice for young people struggling with obesity.
Metformin works by reducing insulin resistance and improving glucose metabolism. The medication is typically prescribed in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, and has been shown to be effective in long-term weight management.
Combining Medications with Lifestyle Changes
While medications can play a critical role in treating obesity in children and teens, lifestyle changes are also essential for long-term success. The study found that children who received both medication and lifestyle interventions experienced greater weight loss and improvements in BMI and blood sugar levels compared to those who received only medication or lifestyle interventions.
Lifestyle interventions can include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management. These interventions can help children develop healthy habits that they can maintain over time, reducing their risk of developing serious health problems associated with obesity.
Conclusion
The study published in Obesity Reviews provides valuable insights into the most effective medications for treating obesity in children and teens. Phentermine/topiramate, liraglutide, and metformin emerged as the top choices when paired with lifestyle changes, offering safer, evidence-based tools for managing obesity in young people.
As healthcare providers, it is essential to consider these medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for children and teens struggling with obesity. By combining medications with lifestyle changes, we can help young people achieve long-term weight loss and improve their overall health and well-being.
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/understanding-obesity-medications-for-kids-and-teens
