AAP Pediatrics Journal Study: GLP-1 Prescribing in U.S. Children Aged 8-11 With Obesity Rose 310-fold From 2019 to Mid-2026 (0.03% to 9.3%); 93.7% Have Severe Obesity, 65.2% Have Comorbidities
A study published September 4, 2026 in the American Academy of Pediatrics journal Pediatrics (DOI: 10.1542/peds.2026-077048) documented a 310-fold increase in GLP-1 receptor agonist prescribing in U.S. children aged 8 to 11 without diabetes and with obesity between 2019 and mid-2026 — from 0.03% of eligible children in 2019 to 9.3% in 2026. Prescribing captured liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide across the age group. Recipient characteristics: 93.7% had class II or III severe obesity at baseline, 65.2% had at least one weight-related comorbidity, and approximately 25% had prediabetes. Socioeconomic gradients were substantial: children in upper-income communities were prescribed GLP-1s at 55% higher rates than those in lower-income communities. The trend accelerated notably following the December 2022 FDA approval of Wegovy for adolescents 12 and older (implicit off-label use in the younger cohort) and shifted further after the AAP's January 2023 pediatric obesity clinical practice guideline. FoodNavigator syndicated the study September 10, 2026 alongside broad coverage this week; the data show how quickly clinical practice moved ahead of the STEP Young Phase 3 topline announced September 7.