Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists in Pediatric Obesity

The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive summary of current clinical evidence on the relationship between GLP-1 receptor agonists and pediatric obesity, to evaluate these findings from metabolic and therapeutic perspectives, and to offer potential directions for future research in the field. Obesity is a chronic disease that threatens health across all age groups, particularly children and adolescents. Lifestyle modification and nutrition-based approaches are regarded as the cornerstone strategies for treating pediatric obesity; however, they have important limitations in achieving sustainable long-term weight loss. This has increased interest in pharmacological treatment options. GLP-1 receptor agonists were originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and they are now among the pharmacological agents with therapeutic indications not only in adults but also in pediatric and adolescent populations. As clinical evidence of their effects on body weight has accumulated, these agents have been incorporated into obesity treatment indications. In current clinical practice, the GLP-1 receptor agonists with approved indications for the treatment of pediatric obesity are liraglutide and semaglutide. Available evidence indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists represent a promising pharmacotherapeutic option for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents. Nevertheless, more comprehensive studies are needed regarding the long-term efficacy, safety profiles, and clinical positioning of these agents. Future research is expected to clarify the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the management of pediatric obesity.