Background: Dietary supplements (DSs) are widely used to complement diets, particularly among individuals with specific nutritional needs. While DSs can promote health and prevent disease, improper use may lead to adverse effects or medication interactions, highlighting the need for safe, informed consumption. This study assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to DSs in Western Saudi Arabia, providing insights into national consumption patterns. Method: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. A 28-item questionnaire covering demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding DSs was administered. Participants aged 18 years and older residing in the study regions were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 22 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: A total of 1006 participants completed the survey, with 70.5% (n = 709) reporting DS use. Most respondents were female (71.8%) and 34.3% were aged between 18 and 30 years. Although 82.5% were aware of DSs, only 41% knew the correct dosages, and 30.3% expressed uncertainty about DS safety. About 28.1% of DS users experienced side effects. Multivitamins were the most commonly used DS type (44.9%), followed by mono-vitamins (39.9%) and minerals (7.5%). The primary motivations for DS use were health improvement and ensuring adequate nutrition (66%), while 20% used DSs to address specific deficiencies. Most participants sourced DSs from pharmacies (85.5%), and 46.6% relied on the internet for information. Significant differences in DSs use were observed based on gender and age (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread use of DSs, with significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning dosage and safety. Associations between DS use and demographic factors indicate that public health strategies should address these variables. Targeted education and clear guidance on safe DS use are essential for promoting informed consumption and reducing potential health risks.

Introduction Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing (PIP) poses a significant risk to patient safety and associated with poor healthcare outcomes in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This study aimed to assess PIP prevalence and patterns in older adults across all care settings in GCC. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted on six medical databases to identify studies assessing the PIP prevalence in older adults using validated criteria in GCC. Pooled prevalence estimates and odds ratios were calculated using STATA Software (version 16). Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated with the I² statistic, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plot symmetry and Egger’s regression test. The risk of bias was assessed using the JBI Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool. Results Fourteen eligible studies conducted over ten years included 18,647 patients. The median prevalence of PIP was 54.4% (IQR: 37.6–62.1%), higher in hospital settings (59.5%; IQR: 53.7–65.3%) compared to primary care (44.2%; IQR: 18.5–54.4%). Cardiovascular medications were the most common PIP (15,353 occurrences). Polypharmacy was significantly associated with PIP exposure (OR: 5.26; 95% CI: 2.33–11.84). The odds of PIP exposure were significantly increased among older individuals with chronic kidney disease (OR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.19–2.54) and diabetes (OR: 1.74; 95% CI: 1.18–2.30). Conclusion This study highlights high PIP prevalence among older adults in GCC countries, particularly in hospital settings. Polypharmacy and certain chronic conditions were significantly associated with PIP exposure. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to improve prescribing practices and medication safety.