Lebanese Adults Exhibit Moderate Knowledge, Cautious Attitudes on Off-Label Antidiabetic Meds for Weight Loss; 12.3% Report Use
Background
The global rise in obesity and the increasing availability of highly effective antidiabetic medications, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, have led to a surge in their off-label use for weight loss. This trend raises significant public health concerns regarding patient safety, appropriate prescribing practices, and potential adverse effects from unsupervised use. Understanding public knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is crucial to address these issues, especially in regions like Lebanon where specific data on this phenomenon is scarce, highlighting a critical gap in public health surveillance and education.
Study Design
Researchers conducted a cross-sectional online survey among 405 Lebanese adults between June and July 2025, using convenience sampling via social media. The questionnaire, adapted from published instruments and pilot-tested, collected data on sociodemographics, KAP, and medication use. Knowledge and attitude scores (out of 100) were calculated. Multivariable regression identified factors associated with the use of antidiabetic medications for weight loss, with a focus on self-reported use of compounds like semaglutide.
Results
Lebanese adults demonstrated moderate knowledge (mean score 69.39 ± 8.71) and cautious attitudes (mean score 69.11 ± 5.54) toward the safe use of antidiabetic medications for weight loss. Higher education and healthcare-related employment were independently associated with better knowledge and more appropriate attitudes. Previous weight-control complications were linked only to more appropriate attitudes. Overall, 12.3% of participants reported using antidiabetic medications for weight loss, with semaglutide being the primary choice. Among these users:
62.0% experienced side effects, 46.0% reported weight regain after discontinuation, and 32.0% used these medications without medical consultation. Medication use was significantly associated with smoking (aOR 3.13, 95% CI 1.53-6.38), prior weight-control complications (aOR 8.50, 95% CI 3.27-22.12), higher knowledge scores (aOR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00-1.09), and adherence to a weight-loss diet (aOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.35-3.60). Conversely, higher occupational physical activity was inversely associated with use (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.41-0.84).
Key Findings
- Lebanese adults showed moderate knowledge (69.39%) and cautious attitudes (69.11%) regarding antidiabetic medications for weight loss.
- 12.3% of participants reported using antidiabetic medications for weight loss, primarily semaglutide.
- Among users, 62.0% experienced side effects, and 32.0% used medications without medical consultation.
- Prior weight-control complications were strongly associated with medication use (aOR 8.50, 95% CI 3.27-22.12).
- Smoking (aOR 3.13) and adherence to a weight-loss diet (aOR 2.21) were also associated with medication use.
Why It Matters
This study highlights a significant public health challenge, revealing that a notable portion of the Lebanese population is using antidiabetic medications, primarily semaglutide, off-label for weight loss, often without medical supervision and experiencing adverse effects. Public health campaigns are urgently needed to educate individuals on the risks and appropriate use of these powerful medications. Clinicians must be prepared to counsel patients on the safe and effective management of weight, emphasizing the importance of medical consultation. The findings underscore the need for regulatory bodies to monitor the accessibility and promotion of these drugs for off-label purposes to prevent misuse and ensure patient safety.
semaglutide
weight-loss
off-label-use
public-health
lebanon
cross-sectional-study