ArticleJournal of public health research2026
Public views, patterns, and impacts of social networking site use for medicine-related information in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.
Article in Journal of public health research, 2026. 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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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Who cites it
1 citing paper in PubMed.
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Authors and funding
11 authors.
Funding
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Abstract
Introduction: Social networking sites (SNSs) are increasingly used as sources of health and medicine-related information, offering accessible communication but raising concerns about misinformation and its impact on medication-related behaviors. This study examined public views, patterns of use, and factors associated with using SNSs for medicine-related information in Saudi Arabia, as well as the perceived impact on medication-related decisions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged ≥18 years residing in Saudi Arabia who used at least one SNS. An online self-administered questionnaire was distributed via multiple social media platforms using a secure web-based survey (QuestionPro). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 29. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted, with statistical significance set at Results: Of 651 participants, 60.2% used SNSs to seek medicine-related information. YouTube was the most commonly used platform, followed by X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Commonly searched topics included medication side effects, long-term effects, and mechanisms of action. Nearly one quarter reported altering or discontinuing medications, 25.0% initiated treatments based on SNS information, and 14.5% experienced adverse effects. Higher SNS use was associated with residence outside the Eastern Province, whereas retired participants and those using prescription or over-the-counter medications were less likely to rely on SNSs. Conclusions: SNSs are widely used by the Saudi public for medicine-related information and significantly influence medication-related behaviors. Despite their convenience, these platforms pose risks related to misinformation. Greater involvement of healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists, is needed to provide evidence-based medication information and enhance medication literacy and patient safety.
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