A recent study reveals how TikTok shapes young people’s understanding of isotretinoin for acne treatment, highlighting the risks of misinformation.
A study published in the medical journal Cureus has highlighted the critical role of social media, particularly TikTok, in shaping public understanding and attitudes toward isotretinoin, a medication frequently prescribed for treating acne. The research underscored the potential risks associated with the dissemination of misinformation on these platforms, especially given that acne vulgaris affects around 9% of the global population, predominantly individuals aged between 12 and 24 years, a demographic that aligns closely with TikTok’s user base.
The study’s authors noted, “Acne vulgaris, affecting approximately 9% of the global population, primarily impacts individuals aged between 12 and 24 years, the predominant age group of TikTok users.” They explored the extent to which TikTok influences users’ knowledge, perspectives, and treatment adherence regarding isotretinoin, which is known for its efficacy in managing severe acne through its action of inhibiting sebaceous gland function and reducing sebum production.
According to statistics reported by Statista, TikTok boasts approximately 1.6 billion daily users, ranking as the fifth most-used social media application worldwide. The researchers highlighted that a significant portion of young individuals—about 90% of teens and young adults—turn to social media for health-related information, which has implications for their health care decision-making.
“Isotretinoin is an oral systemic retinoid medication effective in treating acne at a pharmacologic dosage of 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg per day,” the authors stated in their study. They emphasised the importance of scrutinising and understanding the impact of TikTok content on perceptions of isotretinoin, especially as other medications like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs have gained popularity in the realm of weight management due to social media influences.
The research team reviewed a sample of 50 TikTok videos related to isotretinoin, which were posted on the platform between August 2020 and February 2023. Through their analysis, they identified several key themes related to the videos, such as effectiveness, physical side effects, and psychological impacts, as well as knowledge dissemination and the treatment decision-making process.
The authors concluded that while TikTok may be a valuable tool for facilitating health discussions and increasing awareness about treatment options, there are considerable risks in terms of misinformation that could deter individuals from seeking appropriate medical care. “These findings emphasize social media platforms’ role in disseminating health information about dermatological treatments like isotretinoin,” they wrote, advocating for dermatologists to monitor social media trends to both understand patient perspectives and mitigate the effects of any false information circulating online.
In light of the intricate relationship between social media and patient experiences, the researchers acknowledged the necessity for ongoing evaluation of the long-term effects of health education on platforms like TikTok, particularly concerning treatment adherence and patient outcomes. They stated, “Evaluating long-term effects of health education from TikTok regarding the impact on treatment adherence and patient outcomes is essential.”
In summary, the study’s insights reflect a growing recognition of how digital platforms can influence health behaviours and expectations, particularly among younger demographics, and establish a foundation for continued research into the role of social media in healthcare communication.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11974233/ – This article supports the claim that social media platforms like TikTok significantly influence public perceptions of isotretinoin and highlights issues of misinformation, particularly regarding mental health risks.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40196056/ – This study emphasizes TikTok’s role in shaping perceptions of isotretinoin and underscores the importance of accurate information to support informed decision-making.
- https://academic.oup.com/ced/article-abstract/46/8/1606/6598765 – This abstract discusses the spread of misinformation about isotretinoin on TikTok and how it can discourage patients from pursuing necessary treatments.
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/270610-isotretinoin-on-tiktok-a-qualitative-analysis-of-attitudes-perspectives-and-knowledge-dissemination-of-user-generated-content – This study provides insights into how TikTok influences user attitudes and knowledge about isotretinoin, highlighting both the benefits and risks associated with the platform.
- https://www.drugtopics.com/view/accurate-online-education-crucial-in-acne-management – The article emphasizes the importance of accurate online education in managing isotretinoin use and discusses the impact of TikTok on treatment adherence and patient outcomes.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative discusses a study published in Cureus, which is a relatively recent publication platform, but does not specify the exact date of publication. It references content on TikTok from August 2020 to February 2023. The information seems relevant given recent discussions on social media’s health impacts.
Quotes check
Score:
6
Notes:
The narrative includes quotes from the study’s authors but does not provide an earliest known reference or date for these quotes. Without further context or a specific source citation, tracing the original publication date of these quotes is challenging.
Source reliability
Score:
4
Notes:
The narrative originates from an online news aggregator and is based on a study from Cureus, a medical journal known for its peer-review process. However, details about the study’s authors or specific citations are not provided, which slightly diminishes the reliability assessment.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims in the narrative are plausible given the recognised influence of social media, especially TikTok, on public health perceptions. The narrative discusses real-world issues like the spread of health information and its potential impact on treatment adherence.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): OPEN
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative is generally plausible, discussing the impact of social media on public perceptions of medical treatments. However, its reliance on an unspecified study and lack of specific citations slightly reduces its credibility. The gaps in source reliability and quote verification prevent a definitive conclusion.
