2025 has been a groundbreaking year in the health and pharmaceutical world, especially online. From the growing MAHA movement led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to conversations about celebrities using GLP-1 medications, health topics have dominated social media discussions.
As we look back at the year, MM+M explored the most talked-about health themes across platforms like Reddit, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Here are the five topics that captured the most attention.
1. GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications have sparked significant chatter online, with TikTok alone featuring over 693,000 related posts. Many users are sharing their personal journeys and discussing the lifestyle changes that accompany these drugs. A notable part of the conversation also focuses on compounded medications containing tirzepatide.
Microdosing is another trending topic this year. As various telehealth platforms promote this method, users are debating its safety and effectiveness. After Instagram and Facebook placed restrictions on searches for weight-loss drugs, people are looking for guidance and support more than ever.
2. Mental Health Awareness
In 2025, mental health awareness took center stage, with over 64 million posts related to this topic on Instagram. Conversations revolved around various antidepressants, such as Lexapro and Zoloft, as users shared experiences and questions about their effectiveness.
Experts vary in their opinions; some emphasize the importance of counseling alongside medication. A recent survey found that 80% of mental health professionals agree that therapy and medication together yield the best results.
3. Conversations About Cancer
More people are openly discussing cancer, leading to over 4.4 million TikTok posts highlighting personal stories. The focus isn’t just on treatments but also on the emotional toll on caregivers and awareness for rare cancer types. Notably, younger women face rising rates of breast cancer diagnoses, creating a strong need for better education about screenings and early detection.
Historical data show that breast cancer awareness campaigns, especially since the 1990s, have significantly improved screening rates and early diagnosis.
4. Chronic Illnesses
The conversation around chronic illnesses has gained traction, with over 1.9 million TikTok posts this year. Users are discussing long-term effects and treatment options. Health tech devices like the Oura Ring and Apple Watch are popular topics, as people share tips on how these tools help track and manage their health.
Interestingly, studies show that lifestyle changes can drastically improve chronic illness outcomes. A 2023 research report found that simple changes, like regular exercise and a balanced diet, can reduce symptoms by as much as 40%.
5. Vaccines and Tylenol
Despite years of debate, vaccines continue to stir controversy online, with nearly 800,000 TikTok posts discussing them this year. While misinformation about vaccine safety persists, many Reddit users countered these narratives with scientific facts about vaccine effectiveness.
Tylenol discussions also gained traction, emphasizing the importance of safety and understanding of its main ingredient, acetaminophen. For pharmaceutical marketers, it’s crucial to relay accurate science, as social media has empowered users to educate each other.
This year’s most-discussed health topics show a shift towards personal experiences and community support. As these conversations evolve, healthcare providers and marketers should take note of the growing demand for clarification and reliable information. Staying connected with user concerns can enhance outreach and education efforts moving forward.
