The use of injectable pens to treat obesity and diabetes in children and adolescents has grown and attracted the attention of specialists.
These pens mimic a natural hormone produced in the intestine and help control hunger and glucose. According to doctors, they could become one of the main strategies in the treatment of these diseases, if they prove to be safe for this age group.
Endocrinologist explains use and care of ‘slimming pens’; understand
Between 2015 and 2023, the number of visits to young people with obesity and type 2 diabetes increased by 430% and 225%, respectively, in Brazil.
To pediatrician Fabiola Isabel Suanofrom the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP), explains that childhood obesity is the result of an environment that favors weight gain. According to her, factors such as excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods, a sedentary lifestyle and lack of time for healthy habits are among the main reasons.
In Brazil, Anvisa has already approved the use of Wegovy and Saxenda for adolescents aged 12 and over in the treatment of obesity.
Ozempic, indicated for diabetes, and Mounjaro, used in adults, are not yet approved for minors.
The pharmaceutical Eli Lillymanufacturer of Mounjaro, asked Anvisa for authorization for use from the age of 10. The request was made based on a study that showed an average weight loss of 15% and improved glucose control in young people.
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According to the endocrinologist Maria Edna de Melofrom USP, pens can become an important tool when diet and exercise are not enough.
“Alone, the medicine does not have the ideal effect, but, combined with a change in lifestyle, it can help a lot”, he says.
Experts emphasize, however, that there are still no studies that prove the long-term safety of these medications for children and adolescents.
Reactions such as nausea, nausea and constipation are the most common. There is also concern about possible impacts on growth and development.
In addition to the side effects, the cost and injectable form make adherence to treatment difficult. Another point of warning is the misuse of so-called “slimming pens” by teenagers influenced by aesthetic standards.]
See differences between ‘Brazilian Ozempic’ and other weight loss pens
“These medications should only be used with medical supervision, which must assess the growth, development and mental health of patients”, reinforces Fabíola.
Doctors warn that obesity is a complex and collective disease, which should not be treated as an individual choice.
“If these pens are used without criteria, we run the risk of replacing one problem, obesity, with another, which is the search for the perfect body”, concludes the pediatrician.
With agencies
(Under the supervision of Aline Araújo)
