TikTokfluence: The rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the age of social media health trends.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the quality, reliability, and thematic content of user-generated videos on TikTok concerning glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. METHODS: This cross-sectional study analyzed the top 400 most popular videos using the hashtags #Ozempic, #Semaglutide, #Mounjaro, and #Tirzepatide. A dual approach was employed, incorporating qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative scoring. The JAMA Internet Health Information Criteria and the DISCERN Consumer Health Information Evaluation Tool were utilized to assess the quality and reliability of the health information provided. RESULTS: Of the analyzed content, 98% was produced by individual users or influencers. The reliability-based information quality score for these accounts was significantly lower than that of healthcare professionals (34.53 vs. 52.31). No significant correlation was observed between engagement metrics (views and likes) and information quality. A significant proportion of the content contained risky or misleading information, particularly regarding side effects and safe usage. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the TikTok algorithm prioritizes engagement over content quality. There is a substantial communication deficit regarding GLP-1 receptor agonists on social media, necessitating better public health strategies to combat misinformation.