These updated guidelines view childhood obesity as a chronic disease state that requires early intensive therapy, including lifestyle, pharmacological and surgical interventions. The AAP 2023 comprehensive guidelines regarding the evaluation and treatment of children and adolescents are a paradigm shift from previous guidance, which recommended watchful waiting as the method for managing youth obesity. Barclays predicts that at its peak, Wegovy’s sales will reach $14.5 billion - no doubt furthered by the brand drug’s recent label expansion into adolescent obesity treatment alongside new guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

In fact, between February 20, there has been a 46% increase in sales - equating to about a $2.8 billion increase ($1.5 billion of that earned within the past three months).

The use of semaglutide products Ozempic and Wegovy has increased at a staggering rate despite the recent concern around its shortage this past fall. Semaglutide is an injectable, antidiabetic medication used for treating Type 2 diabetes and for assisting with long-term weight management. With news headlines like CNBC’s “Miracle Drug Could Remake the Weight Loss Industry,” The Week Magazine’s “A ‘Game Changer’ for Weight Loss,” Rolling Stone’s “Who Deserves the New ‘Miracle’ Weight Loss Drugs?” and various social media posts from countless influencers raving about their weight loss, it appears semaglutide may be the miracle weight loss drug the world’s been waiting for. Vizient Senior Clinical Manager, Pharmacy Stacy Lauderdale, PharmD

Semaglutide success stories