At what age are anorexiants generally not prescribed?

Anorexiants, which are medications prescribed for weight loss by suppressing appetite, are typically avoided in younger populations due to safety and efficacy concerns. Most guidelines indicate that these medications are generally not recommended for individuals under the age of 12. This caution arises from several factors, including the potential for significant side effects, the concern over the psychological impact of weight management at an early age, and the limited research available on the long-term effects of these drugs in children.

In this context, prescribing anorexiants to individuals aged 12 and younger is strongly discouraged due to the risk of developmental issues and the physiological differences between children and adults. It is crucial for healthcare providers to prioritize healthy lifestyle changes and approaches, such as diet and exercise, over pharmacological interventions in this age group. Therefore, the appropriate understanding of prescribing practices places an emphasis on not using anorexiants in younger individuals, particularly those aged 12 years or less.