Assessment of Public Knowledge,Awareness and Practice about theUse, Adverse Effects, and Safetyof Glucagon-like Peptide-1 AgonistMedications in Saudi Arabia
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Abstract
Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have gained increasing attention for
weight management and metabolic diseases. However, public knowledge, awareness, and practice regarding their
use, safety, and adverse effects remain insufficiently explored in Saudi Arabia. Objective: The objective of the
study is to assess the knowledge, awareness, and practice regarding glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist
medications, including their use, adverse effects, and safety among the general population in Saudi Arabia.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 436 participants in Saudi Arabia. Data
were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and
practice regarding GLP-1 medications. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and multinomial logistic regression
were applied. Results: The mean age of participants was 36.1 ± 14.9 years. Most of the respondents were female
(77.5%), held a bachelor’s degree (65.8%), and resided in the Western region (57.1%). Overall, 57.6% had moderate
knowledge, 29.1% poor knowledge, and only 13.3% good knowledge. Significant associations were found between
knowledge level and both age (P < 0.001) and gender (P = 0.003), while education was not significant. Multinomial
logistic regression confirmed that age was the only significant predictor of knowledge (P < 0.001). Regarding
practice, 94.5% had never used weight-loss medications. Among users, semaglutide and tirzepatide were the most
commonly reported drugs, mainly for obesity and diabetes. Most users reported low engagement with healthcare
consultation and limited adverse effects. Conclusion: The study shows that the Saudi population has a moderate
level of knowledge about GLP-1 RAs, but their usage is very low. Age was the most significant factor influencing
knowledge, while practice patterns suggest there is a lack of medical guidance and awareness.
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