GLP-1 use linked to better diabetes control in children and young adults

Clinical takeaway: When young patients with type 2 diabetes remain above their individualized A1c goal despite metformin, with or without basal insulin, consider a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for their age and indication. Assess response through glucose control as well as weight.

GLP-1–based drugs have demonstrated benefits in pediatric diabetes trials, but evidence from routine care remains limited. A European registry study presented at EASD 2026 found that treatment was associated with improved glucose control, standardized BMI, and systolic blood pressure in children, adolescents, and young adults with type 2 diabetes.

Researchers analyzed records for 1,878 patients aged 6–24 years in Germany, Austria, and Luxembourg. GLP-1–based medication use increased from 6.3% in 2019 to 27.2% in 2025.

The outcomes analysis included 240 patients with treatment documented at two or more visits. Their median age was 16.4 years, and median treatment duration was 11 months. Liraglutide predominated. Other medications included dulaglutide, semaglutide, and the dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist tirzepatide. Most patients also received metformin, sometimes with insulin.

Mean A1c decreased from 7.88% to 7.06%. After adjustment for measured patient characteristics, the reduction was 0.78 percentage points.

Weight-related changes were modest overall. Mean BMI standard deviation score, a measure of BMI relative to an age-based reference, decreased from 2.23 to 2.15. Systolic blood pressure also improved, and the proportion classified as having hypertension fell from 60% to 52%. The adjusted change in diastolic pressure was not statistically significant.

These observational findings support benefits beyond weight management but cannot isolate medication effects from other care. Adverse event results were not reported, and reductions in long-term complications were not assessed. The work has not yet been published in a medical journal.

“Our results confirm that GLP-1 receptor agonists have real benefits for children, adolescents and young adults with type 2 diabetes,” said lead researcher Dr Marie Auzanneau of Ulm University.

Source: Auzanneau M, et al. (2026 Oct 1) EASD annual meeting, abstract 788. Use of GLP-1-RA in children, adolescents and young adults with type 2 diabetes: results from Germany, Austria, and Luxembourg based on the DPV registry