Which GLP-1 receptor agonist is listed as a prominent option for obesity management in youths aged 12 years and older?

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

Answer: (D)

GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking the incretin hormone, which slows gastric emptying and increases the feeling of fullness, helping to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. In youths aged 12 and older, the prominent option for obesity management from this drug class is liraglutide. It has explicit pediatric approval for obesity in adolescents 12 years and up when combined with lifestyle changes, making it the most evidence-supported and clinically used choice in this age group.

Metformin helps with insulin resistance and is not a GLP-1 receptor agonist, so it isn’t the obesity treatment in this drug class. Orlistat reduces fat absorption but is not a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but it isn’t the primary or widely approved option for obesity in adolescents, with liraglutide having the stronger pediatric obesity approval and data.