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Know whether weight loss pills are safe for teenagers
Samira Vishwas | November 5, 2025 11:25 AM CST

Overview: Know whether weight loss pills are safe for teenagers

Whether weight loss pills are safe for teenagers or not depends on their lifestyle and problems. But information is necessary before consuming.

Weight Loss Pills for Teenagers: Obesity has become a big problem in today’s busy life. According to WHO report, the obesity rate among children and teenagers is 19.7 percent, which affects approximately 1.47 crore children. Children are facing many health risks due to overweight or obesity. In such a situation, weight loss pills can help in removing health problems. But it is important to understand whether these pills are safe for teenagers or whether they have any side effects. So let’s know about it.

Do weight loss pills work for teenagers

Do weight loss pills work for teenagers

Prescription weight loss medications are prescribed when lifestyle changes alone are not helping to reduce weight. Usually these medicines are given to those teenagers who are overweight and have problems like high BP or diabetes. These pills or medicines are given in combination with changes in diet and exercise. The doctor may also suggest other medicines depending on the underlying cause of obesity. However, non-prescription or over-the-counter products, such as appetite suppressants or dehydration medications, may cause side effects.

How safe are weight loss pills for teenagers?

Obesity has become a serious challenge for children and teenagers. Doctors should offer weight-loss medications to obese children ages 12 and older, according to new guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). But experts say there is no age or weight limit to start these medicines. Weight loss medicine depends on the severity of the case and other effects the child’s weight has on health.

Obesity in adults is considered a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, but there is no single BMI threshold for growing children. These medications, such as semaglutide (Vezovi) or liraglutide (Saxenda), are given when lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet and exercise are not enough. However, these medicines are not miraculous. Experts warn that medicines can also have side effects, so parents and doctors should work together to monitor the child’s progress.

Side Effects of Weight Loss Pills in Teenagers

Teenagers are taking weight loss pills
Side Effects of Weight Loss Pills in Teenagers

– Many people may have digestive issues due to the consumption of these medicines.

Apart from this, problems of stomach ache, gas, diarrhea and constipation may also occur.

– Weight loss pills can cause dry mouth, dizziness, change in taste and sleep problems.

– Weight loss pills available in stores or online are often a mixture of herbs, chemicals and unknown ingredients, which affect various body functions including metabolism.

Although these medicines are safe, but in some cases they can cause serious problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, stroke, seizures and liver failure.

Teenagers should take these precautions

Teenagers and their parents should take some important precautions before and while using these pills.

– Never take weight loss medicines without doctor’s advice.

– Tell the doctor if the teen is taking any other medicines, as some compounds can react with each other.

– Check with the doctor and pharmacist whether the medicine is FDA-certified or not and whether it contains any hidden ingredients.

– Never skip the dose. If missed, take the next dose or ask your doctor.

– Never take more than the prescribed quantity, because it will not reduce weight rapidly, but can cause serious side effects.

– Some teenagers consider these pills as an easy way to lose weight. Therefore, make sure that the teen maintains a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet and exercise.


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