The Demedicalization of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: An Analysis of TikTok Influencer Endorsement of Ozempic-like Medications for Cosmetic Weight-loss
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: As a result of celebrity endorsement and cultural popularity, GLP-1 receptor agonists as a class of medications have gone viral outside of their clinical context as a magical weight-loss drug. This study critically analyzes TikTok videos to exploratorily examine how influencers frame GLP-1 RAs, revealing a strong emphasis on highlighting physical and aesthetic transformations with limited medical discussion. The findings highlight concerns of consumer misinformation and the growing demedicalization of GLP-1 RAs. This study underscores the need for more balanced communications surrounding these medications in order to facilitate nuanced narratives surrounding GLP-1 RA usage and ensure consumers are properly informed about their medical decisions.
Author: Jayanthi, Riya
Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7164605949
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