A surge in prescriptions for Ozempic and similar GLP-1 drugs among teens has raised alarms among medical professionals. Two studies indicate a staggering increase in use among adolescents and Gen Z. While these medications may help with weight management by mimicking fullness, their long-term effects remain uncertain. Doctors like Jennifer McCauley emphasize caution, advocating that any teens prescribed these drugs should also be guided towards healthier diets and exercise to avoid adverse effects, including potential loss of muscle and bone mass that could lead to future health problems, such as osteoporosis.
"It's important that there is sufficient protein in the diet... We don't want kids losing muscle mass or bone mass at an early age because that will set them up with issues potentially with osteoporosis in the future."
"Despite decades of research, however, doctors still aren't entirely sure how GLP-1s work, and there are still questions about their long-term effects."
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