Story perspectives

FDA Delays Pediatric Obesity Drug Trials, Impacting Millions

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require pediatric inclusion in obesity drug trials, delaying pediatric studies until after adult trials, impacting 15 million U.S. children.
Only semaglutide is approved for ages 12 and up.
The European Union requires pediatric investigation plans, enabling timely development for children, while tirzepatide trials for ages 12 to 18 run through 2027, delaying younger children's access until at least 2030.

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Story summary

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require pediatric inclusion in obesity drug trials, delaying pediatric studies until after adult trials, impacting 15 million U.S. children.
Only semaglutide is approved for ages 12 and up.
The European Union requires pediatric investigation plans, enabling timely development for children, while tirzepatide trials for ages 12 to 18 run through 2027, delaying younger children's access until at least 2030.