Which drug is listed as associated with weight gain in pediatric patients?

• A. Paroxetine
• B. Metformin
• C. Liraglutide
• D. Orlistat

Answer: (A)

Weight gain from medications in children and teens is a common consideration when addressing obesity. Paroxetine, an SSRI antidepressant, has a relatively higher association with weight gain in pediatric patients. It can increase appetite and lead to metabolic changes that promote weight gain in some youths, making it more likely to contribute to increased BMI over time.

In contrast, metformin is typically linked to weight stabilization or modest weight loss in young people, liraglutide tends to promote weight loss through appetite suppression and gastric effects, and orlistat causes weight loss by reducing fat absorption. Because of these opposing weight effects, paroxetine stands out as the medication more commonly associated with weight gain in the pediatric population.