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March 25, 2026JAMA Network Open4 citationsOpen Access

Prescription Drug Promotion by Social Media Influencers

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SGSascha GellSDSneha DaveEWErin Willis

Key Points

  • This study examines the risks associated with prescription drug promotion by social media influencers.
  • Conducted a systematic scoping review
  • Analyzed the promotion practices of influencers
  • Assessed the risks of misleading information
  • Found that influencers often provide inaccurate or misleading advice
  • Promotion is amplified through personal narratives
  • Limited oversight leads to increased risks
  • Highlights a need for updated regulatory guidance and disclosure requirements

Abstract

This systematic scoping review study of prescription drug promotion by influencers found that such promotion carried risks of inaccurate or misleading advice, often amplified through personal and emotionally resonant narratives in an environment with limited oversight and enforcement. Despite the small and fragmented evidence base, these findings highlight the urgent need for updated regulatory guidance, standardized and enforceable disclosure requirements, stronger platform accountability, and targeted digital literacy initiatives. Policymakers and researchers should act proactively to safeguard public health.

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Cite This Study

Gell et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69c37be2b34aaaeb1a67eae1https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.2738
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