Amghar H, El Hani M, Cherrah Y, Serragui S. Incitement to misuse of corticosteroids by Arab YouTubers in a local context.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RISK & SAFETY IN MEDICINE 2024:JRS230061. [PMID:
38943400 DOI:
10.3233/jrs-230061]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The ubiquity of social media has ushered in an era where uncontrolled content sharing extends to all subjects, including sensitive topics such as medication consumption.
OBJECTIVE
To quantify the prevalence of YouTube videos providing information on glucocorticoids and to underscore the risks associated with inaccurate information, which might inadvertently promote inappropriate use of these medications.
METHODS
The YouTube videos were selected using predefined keywords from February 20 to March 4, 2023. The videos were categorized into two groups. Category 1 promotes the misuse of corticosteroids, while Category 2 raises awareness about the risks associated with these drugs.
RESULTS
In total, 843 YouTube videos were included. Approximately 76% of the creators were women. Of these, category 1 videos (69.63%) predominated over Category 2 videos (30.37%). Regarding Category 1, dexamethasone was mentioned in 41.53% of cases, followed by hydrocortisone (17.30%). According to these YouTubers, these products/medications are mainly obtained from community pharmacies (58.09%), online shops (20.01%), and through illicit markets and the black market (13.46%). Weight gain was the most common objective, according to 32.62% of the YouTubers.
CONCLUSION
This study highlights the prevalence of YouTube videos regarding the misuse of corticosteroids. The common focus on weight gain as an objective underscores the importance of educating content creators and viewers about responsible corticosteroid use. Targeted interventions are needed to promote safe and informed medication practices within this online environment.
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