On December 8, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration expanded the approval of Wegovy (semaglutide) to include adolescents aged 12 to 17 with obesity, marking a meaningful shift in the treatment landscape for youth struggling with weight-related health issues. This decision follows promising clinical trial results and addresses a growing public health concern.
Wegovy is a higher-dose version of semaglutide, originally approved by the FDA in 2017 as Ozempic for type 2 diabetes according to the FDA. It belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.These medications mimic the effects of GLP-1, a natural hormone that regulates appetite and food intake.
Semaglutide works by slowing down gastric emptying, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing hunger. This leads to decreased calorie consumption and, ultimately, weight loss. It is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection.