FDA approved Saxenda (liraglutide) by Novo Nordisk to treat obesity in children aged 12 and older|News Oresund|CC BY 2.0

New guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggest the use of medications and even surgery, in severe cases, as treatment options for obesity as it can lead to health complications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over the course of 15 years obesity rate among children increased from 17% to 20%.

It is a telling sign that the guidelines focus on treatment instead of prevention of obesity as it impacts about 14.4 million kids and adolescents in the country.

FDA approved GlaxoSmithKline’s orlistat for long-term obesity treatment in children 12 and older. Novo Nordisk’s diabetes medication, Saxenda (liraglutide), has also been approved to treat obesity in adolescents aged 12 and older.

For chronic weight management Qsymia from Vivushas received FDA approval.