practicaldermatology.com
The quality and reliability of information on TikTok regarding spironolactone for acne treatment is concerning, according to a new study by George Washington University researchers.
An analysis of the top 50 TikTok videos under the hashtag #spironolactone, which had received 108 million views as of December 2023, showed “a significant gap in the accuracy and trustworthiness of the content shared on the platform,” the researchers said.
The study, “Evaluating Quality and Reliability of Most-Viewed TikTok Videos About Spironolactone,” was published in the Journal of Drugs and Dermatology.
“Despite the platform's potential for widespread educational impact, the predominance of low-quality patient testimonials highlights the risk of misinformation, which could adversely affect patient decisionmaking and health outcomes,” the authors write. “Educational videos produced by dermatologists show promise in providing accurate information, but there is a need for greater consistency and thoroughness, including the citation of sources. These findings underscore the importance of developing standardized guidelines for healthcare providers engaging with social media, as well as the critical role of comprehensive counseling in clinical settings. By addressing these gaps, dermatologists can better leverage platforms like TikTok to support patient education, reduce the spread of misinformation, and ultimately improve patient care in the digital age."