Can teenagers use Wegovy injection in Dubai UAE ?

Author: 9d262c9e1e

16 July 2025

Views: 3

http://glamclinicdubai.ae/en/weight-loss/wegovy-injections/
Certainly! Here is a rewritten version of the article:

Teenagers in Dubai, UAE, can utilize Wegovy under specific conditions and stringent medical oversight.

Wegovy (semaglutide) has gained approval from major health authorities, including the FDA in the United States, for adolescents aged 12 years and above. The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and Dubai Health Authority (DHA) typically align with these international approvals, making it legally accessible for this age group in Dubai.

Eligibility Criteria for Teenagers (12 years and older) in Dubai:
For teenagers to be considered for Wegovy, they must meet the following requirements:

Age: They should be 12 years old or older.
BMI Criteria for Obesity: Their Body Mass Index (BMI) must be at or above the 95th percentile for their age and gender, indicating obesity in pediatric populations.
Weight Requirement: They must weigh over 60 kg.
Failure of Lifestyle Interventions: Wegovy is generally considered for teenagers who have attempted but not achieved significant weight loss through lifestyle-based approaches like dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and behavioral counseling. It is not the primary treatment but an option for those for whom other methods have been ineffective.
Presence or Risk of Obesity-Related Health Conditions: While not always a strict requirement for the "obesity" BMI, the presence of or risk for obesity-related health conditions (such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, or abnormal cholesterol levels) can strengthen the case for medical intervention.

The Importance of Medical Supervision for Teenagers:
The utilization of Wegovy in adolescents necessitates even more rigorous medical oversight compared to adults due to the following reasons:

Developing Bodies: Teenagers are still growing and developing, so any medical intervention must carefully consider its effects on growth, hormones, and overall physiological development.
Unique Metabolic Profiles: Adolescent metabolism may differ from adults, necessitating close monitoring of their response to medications.
Specific Side Effect Profile: Some side effects like gallstones (cholelithiasis) or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), hypotension, rash, and urticaria have been reported at higher rates in pediatric patients treated with Wegovy compared to adults in clinical trials.
Psychological Impact: Weight management in teenagers involves significant psychological and emotional components, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to address self-esteem, body image, and potential mental health concerns.
Adherence and Education: Ensuring that teenagers (and their parents/guardians) understand the importance of consistent weekly injections, lifestyle changes, and potential side effects is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

The Role of the Healthcare Team in Dubai:
If a teenager is being considered for Wegovy in Dubai, they will typically be managed by a specialized multidisciplinary team, which may include:

Pediatric Endocrinologist or Bariatric Physician
Pediatric Dietitian/Nutritionist
Physical Activity Specialist
Psychologist/Counselor

What to Expect During the Process:
Initial Comprehensive Assessment
Discussion with Teenager and Parents/Guardians
Emphasis on Lifestyle Therapy First
Gradual Dose Escalation and Monitoring
Long-Term Commitment

In conclusion, while Wegovy is an option for teenagers in Dubai grappling with obesity, it requires careful consideration, adherence to strict eligibility criteria, and comprehensive, ongoing medical supervision by a specialized healthcare team. It provides a valuable tool for adolescents who have not achieved satisfactory results with lifestyle interventions alone.


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