Wed Sep 11 09:45:04 UTC 2024: ## Weight-Loss Injections Show Promise for Children with Obesity

**Jerusalem** – A groundbreaking study has revealed the effectiveness of weight-loss injections in treating obesity in children, offering a new avenue for tackling this growing health concern. The research, conducted by Novo Nordisk and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that the injection Saxenda led to significant weight loss in children with obesity compared to those receiving no treatment.

The study, which involved 82 children aged 6 to 12, showed that those who received daily Saxenda injections over 56 weeks experienced a 5.8% reduction in their Body Mass Index (BMI), while the control group saw only a 1.6% reduction. Children who combined Saxenda with a healthy diet and exercise achieved even greater BMI reductions.

“Until now, children had almost no options for treating obesity,” stated Professor Claudia Fox, the lead researcher from the School of Medicine in Minneapolis. “They were told to try harder with diet and exercise. Now, with these injections, there is hope that children suffering from obesity will be able to live healthier and more productive lives.”

Saxenda, originally developed for diabetes treatment, was found to have a significant side effect of weight loss, prompting researchers to explore its potential for obesity management. The injection works by stimulating the GLP-1 molecule, which plays multiple roles in regulating blood sugar and appetite.

While side effects were similar to those experienced by adults, including bloating, diarrhea, and nausea, they typically subsided over time.

The study’s findings highlight the potential of weight-loss injections as a valuable tool in combatting childhood obesity. However, it’s important to note that these injections are currently approved for adults aged 18 and up, and in some cases, may be authorized for children as young as 12 under special approval from the Health Ministry.

Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Saxenda, has also reported promising results for its newer injection, Wegovy, which has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by 20% in overweight individuals with a history of heart disease.

These developments hold significant promise for improving the health outcomes of children and adults struggling with obesity, offering a new hope for a healthier future.

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