GLP-1 medications expand clinical uses amid warnings over misuse

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, are expanding their clinical applications beyond diabetes and obesity treatment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in high-risk type 2 diabetes patients. Similarly, Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy has received approval for cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with overweight or obesity. Research is also exploring the efficacy of these drugs for cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, respiratory, and neurological conditions.

However, medical experts are raising concerns regarding misuse. The Brazilian Society of Pediatrics (SBP) has issued an alert regarding the inappropriate use of weight-loss pens among children and adolescents, particularly for purely aesthetic purposes. The SBP warns that unsupervised use can lead to serious adverse effects, including growth deficits, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, muscle loss, acute pancreatitis, and gallbladder issues. Furthermore, misuse may trigger eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia, as well as anxiety and depression related to body image.