Clinical trial to compare GLP-1RA effects on bone health in obese adolescents and young adults

The rapid rise in childhood and adolescent obesity necessitates effective interventions, with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) emerging as powerful tools for significant weight reduction. While these therapies offer unprecedented benefits for metabolic health, substantial weight loss, regardless of method (pharmacological or surgical), has raised increasing clinical concerns regarding its impact on bone mineral density and overall skeletal health. This is particularly critical in younger populations (adolescents and young adults) who are still undergoing peak bone mass accrual, where long-term effects of GLP-1RA therapy on bone metabolism remain largely uncharacterized. Understanding these skeletal consequences is vital for developing safe and comprehensive treatment strategies for pediatric obesity.

This 24-month clinical trial will enroll participants aged 12-21 years with obesity to compare bone health markers. The intervention arm will receive GLP-1RA therapy as prescribed by their healthcare provider, while the control arm will continue with lifestyle management for weight loss. All participants will receive provided calcium and vitamin D supplements. The study involves 6 visits over the 24-month period, including two initial visits followed by visits every 6 months. Assessments at each visit include comprehensive History and Physical Exams, Lab Work (likely bone turnover markers, vitamin D levels), Imaging studies (presumably DEXA scans for bone mineral density), Questionnaires (potentially assessing physical activity, quality of life), and 24-hour dietary recalls to monitor nutritional intake.