Exploring the impact of social media on patient perceptions and utilization patterns of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists: A comprehensive analysis in the digital health era

Context: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) drugs are prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Public interest in these drugs has increased notably, accompanied by widespread dissemination of unreliable information, raising concerns about accuracy. Despite this trend, research in Saudi Arabia remains limited regarding public awareness and the influence of social media on health-related decisions. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate public awareness of GLP-1RAs and the influence of social media on health choices in Saudi Arabia. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia targeting social media users aged 18 years and above. Subjects and Methods: Individuals younger than 18 years and nonsocial media users were excluded. The study included 403 participants. Data were collected online via a questionnaire. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: The study examined the impact of social media on GLP-1RAs use, focusing on awareness, perceptions, and motivations. Over half of the participants (54.6%) did not know GLP-1RAs were diabetes medications. Social media was the most frequently cited source of information (75.4%). GLP-1RAs Users had higher mean body mass index values ( P < 0.05). They were more likely to seek information about these medications on social media (80.7%) and to perceive it as a positive influence (45.5%) compared with nonusers (9.7%). Conclusions: Although most participants were familiar with these medications, their knowledge was insufficient, underscoring the need for medical professionals to engage on social media to improve public awareness and provide accurate information.