Research

STEP Young reports initial semaglutide results in children under 12

A company release reports headline phase 3 results in 165 children. Full peer-reviewed results are not yet available.

What happened

Novo Nordisk reported headline results from STEP Young, a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 165 children aged 6 to under 12 with obesity. Both groups also received lifestyle modification.

What we know

The release says the trial met its primary endpoint for percentage change in BMI at 68 weeks. It also reports BMI-category outcomes and says no new safety concerns were identified in this analysis.

What we do not know

A full scientific publication with complete analyses, withdrawals, adverse events and methodological detail is not yet available. These are sponsor-reported results and do not amount to regulatory authorisation for this age group.

Why it matters

The trial studies a population with limited treatment options, but it cannot guide an individual treatment decision. Paediatric use depends on the authorised indication in each jurisdiction and specialist assessment.

Transparency

Primary sources

  1. STEP Young phase 3 headline results

    Novo Nordisk · 2026-09-07

    Company-reported results; full scientific publication is pending.