Public Awareness Regarding Corticosteroid Use and Side Effects: A Cross-Sectional Study in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

The administration of corticosteroids may have possible hazards, ranging from minor adverse medication reactions to more serious considerations. We aimed to assess levels of public awareness concerning corticosteroid use, side effects, and predictors of its use. A cross-sectional study was conducted online throughout the period of May to July 2023. The present investigation utilized a previously developed questionnaire tool. The study encompassed a cohort of 732 individuals. Upon inquiry regarding the adverse effects of corticosteroid treatment, the participants predominantly reported weight gain, skin alterations, and fluid retention leading to breathing difficulties, constituting 44.4%, 30.3%, and 27.7% of the responses, respectively. The prevailing adverse effects observed in individuals using corticosteroids were weight gain, alterations in mood, and changes in skin characteristics, which accounted for 38.1%, 25.7%, and 21.8% of reported cases, respectively. Individuals within the age range of 41-50 years and those who are currently not working show a higher propensity for utilizing corticosteroids in comparison to other demographic groups (p < 0.05). The level of general public knowledge about corticosteroids and the side effects connected with them in Saudi Arabia was adequate. Demographic factors, such as age, gender, and education, have an impact on the use of corticosteroids.

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess public awareness of corticosteroid use, side effects, and predictors. The online survey conducted from May to July 2023 included 732 participants. The results showed that participants were aware of the adverse effects of corticosteroid treatment, with weight gain, mood alterations, and changes in skin characteristics being the most reported. Demographic factors such as age and employment status were found to influence the use of corticosteroids.