The potential role of pharmacists in counteracting health misinformation in social media

Abstract

Background: Health misinformation is often circulated on social media (SM), leading to confusion and jeopardising patients’ health.    Aim: This study aimed to identify the pharmacist’s role in responding to health misinformation on SM.     Methods: Several focus group discussions were conducted involving pharmacist participants purposively recruited. The discussions were audiotaped and thematically analysed.     Results: A total of 41 pharmacists participated in this study. The most frequent misinformation on SM was related to the use of herbal medicines. The misinformation tended to decrease medication compliance, increase delayed treatment, and worsen the illness. Participants reported difficulty in seeking reliable references about traditional and alternative medicines. They were often asked for advice and opinion related to information on SM.     Conclusion: Pharmacists need to counteract the health misinformation on SM actively. Lack of reference to a particular topic is a significant obstacle.