WHO guidelines advise against obesity drugs for children under ten

The World Health Organization has issued new global guidelines recommending against prescribing obesity drugs or weight-loss injections to children under 10 years old, the BBC reported. The agency stated that care for this age group must focus on healthy eating and physical activity rather than pharmaceutical interventions or surgery. [1]

According to the BBC, most GLP-1 weight-loss medications, including Mounjaro and Wegovy, are currently licensed only for older children and adolescents. However, some doctors have prescribed these drugs off-label to younger patients, and pharmaceutical companies are conducting trials in children as young as six years old. The World Health Organization stated it does not oppose clinical drug trials. [1]

The BBC reported that the new guidance endorses the use of digital tools to support healthier lifestyles among children. These approved technologies include activity trackers and active online games that encourage physical movement. [1]