Which medication is FDA-approved for obesity management in children aged 6 years and older?

Setmelanotide is a medication that is specifically FDA-approved for obesity management in children aged 6 years and older, particularly for those with certain genetic disorders that lead to obesity, such as Bardet-Biedl syndrome and POMC deficiency. This medication acts by targeting specific pathways in the brain that regulate hunger and energy expenditure, which can help in reducing weight and managing obesity in this population.

Unlike other options, which may not have specific pediatric indications or are not approved for use in children, setmelanotide's approval includes consideration for the unique needs of children facing genetic obesity challenges. This makes it an important therapeutic choice in pediatric obesity management, providing a targeted approach in cohorts that might not respond to standard weight management strategies.