Weight loss drug users turn to social media over doctors for advice, new study finds

Researchers from the UK and Canada have found that users of GLP-1 medications – weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro that help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels – often rely on social media, online forums, friends and family for information about the drugs. Almost half (48%) of participants said social media was a source of information, while healthcare professionals were consulted less frequently.

The study Perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management in the United Kingdom: a cross-sectional survey study was led by Dr Jason Tallis, Associate Professor in Coventry University’s Research Centre for Discoveries in Life Sciences. He worked alongside Professor David Broom from York St John University and academics from the Research Centre for Healthcare and Community Transformation at Coventry University, the University of Alberta, the University of Warwick, the University of Leicester and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW).

The survey explored how people in the UK are using weight-loss medications. While satisfaction was high, with 93% of users reporting positive effects on body weight and 83% on appearance, researchers also identified potential challenges. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of participants reported skipping meals at least two or three times a week and experiencing reduced energy levels that affected physical activity or daily tasks, while more than 46% expressed concerns about the impact of the medications on muscle mass.

Researchers found many users were seeking practical advice about managing side effects such as nausea, fatigue and muscle loss, as well as longer-term concerns around maintaining weight loss and accessing medication in the future. Participants also discussed the psychological impact of treatment, including changes in confidence, body image and eating habits, with many turning to online communities for shared experiences and peer support.

Professor David Broom, Professor of Health and Physical Activity at York St John University researches the effects of exercise, environmental and nutritional interventions on appetite, energy balance and weight loss.

He said:

“We are in a new age where weight loss medications are readily accessible and are clearly very effective in the short term. However, there are serious concerns about people using them without appropriate checks and there is a lack of long term support when people stop using them.”

Lead author Dr Jason Tallis said:

“One of the most striking findings was the extent to which users relied on social media, friends, family and online forums for information, rather than healthcare professionals. Given the complexity of these medications, and the potential for side effects, misuse and weight regain after stopping treatment, this suggests an important gap in evidence-based support.”

The study also found that most participants obtained their medication through online pharmacies, with some raising concerns about the robustness of pre-prescription checks. A small proportion also reported taking higher doses or using the medication more frequently than recommended because they felt it was not working effectively.

Dr Tallis said the findings highlight the need for better education and support to help people use weight-loss medications safely and effectively as demand continues to grow.

He said: “We hope this research helps shift the conversation from simply prescribing medication to supporting people through medication use. These drugs can be powerful tools but people need clear guidance and practical support to stay active, maintain muscle health, manage side effects and sustain the benefits over time.”

The findings have been published in BMC Public Health in the paper Perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management in the United Kingdom: a cross-sectional survey study.