ArticleFrontiers in pharmacology2025
Patterns and predictors of self-medication behavior of weight loss medications: a cross-sectional analysis of social media influence and role of pharmacist intervention.
Article in Frontiers in pharmacology, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
- 12-Month Weight Loss and Adherence Predictors in a Real-World UK Tirzepatide-Supported Digital Obesity Service: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis.Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) · 2025Article
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Authors and funding
3 authors.
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Abstract
Background: Misuse of weight-loss medicines, particularly those obtained via the internet and social media, raises critical concerns regarding patient safety, compliance, and risk of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Objective: To evaluate patterns of weight-loss medication acquisition, the influence of social media on drug use behaviors, the role of pharmacist recommendations, and the key predictors of self-medication and adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized to assess sources of procurement of weight loss drugs, impact of social media on drug use, and sufficiency of pharmacist counseling on safety and drug compliance. Results: The study revealed that 53% of participants reported using weight-loss medications without consulting a physician. Among them, 32% acquired the medications directly from a pharmacy without prescription and 15% online through social media platforms. A significant majority (68%) indicated being strongly influenced by social media, with Instagram (45%) and TikTok (30%) being the most cited platforms. Pharmacist consultation was associated with improved adherence (50% vs. 25%, Conclusion: Findings highlight a growing trend of social media-driven decisions regarding weight-loss medication use and the associated risks of unregulated online-purchases. Pharmacists play a crucial role in mitigating adverse outcomes by promoting drug safety and adherence. Policy efforts should focus on enhancing regulations of over-the-counter online sales, strengthening pharmacist-led patient education, and combating misinformation through evidence-based public health communication.
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