Use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonistsfor pediatric patients with obesity and diabetes: the providers' perspectives

Author Department

Pediatrics

Document Type

Article, Peer-reviewed

Publication Date

5-2021

Abstract

Introduction: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists(GLP-1RA) have been widely used in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. We sought to evaluate the experience of pediatric endocrinology providers with GLP-1RA and factors that guide them on whether and how to prescribe these medications.

Methods: We surveyed themembers of the Pediatric Endocrine Society regarding the use of GLP-1RA in their practice.

Results: The respondents (n=102)were predominantly from academic centers (84%)and 75%reported using GLP-1RA in pediatric patients, mostly to treat T2D and obesity. Patient tolerance for the medication was reported to be the driving factor determining the duration of treatment. Gastrointestinal side effects were observed more commonly than local reactions or elevation of pancreatic enzymes. Lack of clinical experience was reported to be a major barrier for prescribing GLP-1RA, particularly among those with more than 5 years of clinical experience. Finally, liraglutide was used more often (93%) than other GLP-1RA.

Conclusions: The use of GLP-1RAhas increased in pediatric patients. Recent FDA approval of liraglutide for pediatric obesity will likely further increase its prescription rate. Providers should be vigilant about side effects and adjust the doses of GLP-1RA accordingly. More efforts should be made by professional societies to educate pediatric endocrinology providers about the proper use of GLP-1RA and enhance their confidence in prescribing these medications. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Keywords: GLP-1RA; GLP1; obesity; type 1 diabetes; type 2 diabetes.

PMID

34018306

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