Here's why the FDA is studying Instagram

by journalist Rina Raphael

Are people more willing to trust a drug if Kylie Jenner poses with it? If so, what are the ramifications of that? What happens when social media influencers play doctor?

The FDA wants to know. Last week, the agency announced it will pursue a new study examining how Instagram stars’ pharmaceutical endorsements impact consumer behavior.

It’s about time: A few weeks ago, I reported on the increasing amount of influencers being paid to spread the word about public health campaigns, drugs, even medical devices—despite having little to zero knowledge about the subject at hand. This ranges from Kim Kardashian promoting a morning sickness drug (and omitting the side effects involved) to mommy bloggers posting about the flu shot.