A Mother’s Dilemma: Weight Loss Drug for a 12-Year-Old
In a controversial move, a New York mother, Kait Handler, has turned to the weight loss drug Ozempic for her 12-year-old daughter, Birdie. Handler herself has struggled with weight issues in the past and saw a similar pattern emerging in her daughter when Birdie began gaining weight at age eight.
Determined to prevent repeated cycles of weight struggles, Handler took various approaches to address Birdie’s health. She monitored her daughter’s diet, encouraged therapy, promoted physical activity, and even sent Birdie to a weight-loss camp. However, when Birdie was diagnosed as clinically obese this year, Handler felt she needed a more drastic intervention.
Having successfully lost 75 pounds using weight loss medication herself, Handler sought a telehealth obesity clinic, Mochi, to navigate the process for Birdie. After being initially turned away by a doctor, Mochi prescribed Birdie semaglutide, the active ingredient found in both Wegovy and Ozempic, following a virtual consultation. This decision comes amidst a noticeable surge in the use of Pyrénées for children aged 12 to 15, with prescriptions increasing from 8,700 in 2020 to 60,000 in 2023, primarily due to the approval of Wegovy for this age group.
“She’s struggling with her own self-worth and this could alleviate those issues,” Handler told the Wall Street Journal. “Why wouldn’t I give her the tool that she would need to do that?”
Birdie’s treatment involves a monthly cost of $79 for the medication, along with a $99 monthly fee for the service. Since starting the medication, alongside the 1.2 pounds lost at weight-loss camp, Birdie has shed another pound.
The medication, though effective, isn’t without side effects. Birdie reports occasional mild nausea, but finds that her appetite is much easier to control. Dr. Joyce Lee, a pediatrician at the University of Michigan warns about more severe side effects, such as extreme nausea, vomiting, or constipation, experienced by some children on this medication.
Despite concerns, Birdie’s father acknowledges the positive impact on their family dynamic. “The drug has eased the friction that tends to develop between parents and children over weight battles, removing the need for emotional discussions about eating,” he shares.
This case sparks a debate about the boundaries of parental intervention in childhood obesity and the ethical dilemmas associated with using powerful weight loss medications on young teenagers.
## A Mother’s Dilemma: Weight Loss Drug for a 12-Year-Old
**Expert Interview**
**Introduction:**
In a move that has sparked national conversation, New York mother Kait Handler recently revealed that she is giving her 12-year-old daughter, Birdie, the weight loss drug Ozempic. Handler, who has also battled weight issues, claims this is a last resort after exhausting othre options. This decision has raised ethical concerns and sparked debate about the appropriateness of using such medication on children. To shed light on this complex issue, we spoke with Dr. emily Carter, a leading pediatric endocrinologist and childhood obesity expert.
**World Today News:** Dr. carter, thanks for joining us. Can you explain the concerns surrounding the use of Ozempic, a drug primarily designed for adults with type 2 diabetes, in children?
**Dr. Carter:** The primary concern originates from the lack of long-term safety and efficacy data specifically for children. While ozempic has shown effectiveness in aiding weight loss in adults, its impact on the developing bodies and minds of children is not fully understood. Regulating a child’s appetite and metabolism through medication during such crucial developmental stages could have unforeseen consequences.
**World Today news:** Kait Handler argues that she has exhausted all other options – diet,exercise,therapy – before turning to medication.How common are these cases, and what are the typical approaches to childhood obesity?
**Dr.Carter:** While some children with severe obesity might face difficult challenges in losing weight through lifestyle modifications alone, they are not the norm. Most children respond well to a multi-disciplinary approach involving dietary changes, increased physical activity, family-based behavioral therapy, and psychological support.It’s crucial to address the underlying social, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to obesity.
**World Today News:** What are the potential risks associated with using Ozempic on a child?
**dr.Carter:**
there are several potential risks. Firstly, Ozempic can cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, especially in children. Secondly, it can affect blood sugar levels, which
can be serious for children with pre-existing conditions. lastly,the long-term effects on growth and growth are unknown.We simply don’t have enough facts to confidently say it’s safe for long-term use in children.
**World Today News:** How critically important is parental involvement in addressing childhood obesity?
**Dr. Carter:** Parental involvement is absolutely crucial. Creating a supportive home habitat that promotes healthy eating habits and physical activity is paramount. Parents need to be educated about healthy weight management and work collaboratively with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan tailored to their child’s needs.
**World Today News:** What message would you give to parents considering similar measures for their children?
**Dr. Carter:** I urge parents to prioritize evidence-based approaches to childhood obesity. Consult with a pediatrician or qualified healthcare professional instead of resorting to quick fixes. There are safe and effective strategies to address childhood obesity that focus on holistic well-being, not just weight loss. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.
**Conclusion:**
The decision by Kait Handler to administer Ozempic to her daughter has ignited a broader discussion about the ethics of using adult medication on children for weight loss.Dr. Carter’s insights highlight the importance of thorough, evidence-based approaches that prioritize the long-term health and well-being of children.
This complex issue requires careful consideration,open dialog,and a focus on empowering families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions.
