# GLP-1 drugs linked to nutritional deficiencies in 16% of pediatric patients Study reveals critical gaps in nutritional support for children on weight-loss medications - **Source:** [Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily](https://brifing.si/source/0eef8637-6c5b-4e79-8f5b-6c9c6b36cf16) - **Published:** 2026-09-24 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/b528abf8-8715-434c-9e1a-0d84cafe5945 ## Alarming deficiency rates A study of 2,031 children aged 10-17 on GLP-1 medications found 16.8% developed nutritional deficiencies within one year of treatment. Vitamin D deficiency was most prevalent at 12.4%. These drugs, including liraglutide (78.6% of prescriptions), are increasingly used for weight management and diabetes in pediatric populations despite these emerging risks. ## Critical growth period risks Adolescence requires substantial nutritional support for bone development and biological changes. GLP-1 medications' appetite suppression effects may interfere with this, potentially causing lasting skeletal and developmental impacts. Deficiencies in iron and calcium during this phase are particularly concerning for long-term health outcomes. ## Inadequate nutritional support Only 5% of pediatric patients received nutritional counseling within 30 days of starting GLP-1 therapy, with less than 25% receiving it within six months. This gap occurs despite nutrients like vitamin D being crucial during puberty. The study suggests proactive nutritional management should accompany medication initiation. ## Prescription patterns revealed Liraglutide (marketed as Victoza and Saxenda) dominated pediatric GLP-1 prescriptions at 78.6%. Dulaglutide (Trulicity) accounted for 10.4%, while semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) represented 9.1%. The national claims data covered over 100 million patients, with 2,031 meeting study criteria for analysis. ## Study methodology insights Researchers analyzed administrative claims data from 2017-2022, focusing on continuously enrolled patients without prior deficiency diagnoses. The study excluded children with pre-existing nutritional issues to isolate medication effects. This approach provided a clear view of treatment-emergent deficiencies. ## Clinical practice implications Findings suggest nutritional monitoring should begin concurrently with GLP-1 prescriptions rather than waiting for deficiency detection. Current practices may leave growing children vulnerable during critical developmental windows when nutritional needs are highest. ## Researcher recommendations Senior author Dr. Justin Ryder emphasizes proactive nutritional management for pediatric GLP-1 users. The study calls for integrating dietary counseling into treatment plans from initiation, particularly for adolescents undergoing rapid physical development and bone growth. ## Broader healthcare impact As GLP-1 use expands in pediatric populations, these findings highlight systemic gaps in nutritional support protocols. The 16.8% deficiency rate underscores the need for updated clinical guidelines addressing medication-associated nutritional risks during childhood development. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/09/260923035926.htm — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._