Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu has responded to accusations of spreading health misinformation, following her endorsement of hydrogen peroxide nebulisation to combat viral infections.
Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a renowned hepatologist known as 'The Liver Doc,' criticized Samantha's advice, calling it dangerous and misleading.
The controversy erupted on July 3 when Samantha posted an image on social media showing herself nebulizing with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and distilled water, suggesting it as an alternative treatment for viral infections. She captioned the image, "Before taking medication for a common viral, consider trying an alternative approach. One option is to nebulize with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and distilled water. Works like magic. Avoid unnecessary use of [tablet emoji]."
On July 4, Dr. Cyriac shared Samantha's post along with a warning from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), which states that inhaling hydrogen peroxide is dangerous and ineffective against COVID-19. He labeled Samantha as "a health and science illiterate," criticizing her for endangering public health. He also called for action from India's Health Ministry and other regulatory bodies to address the issue.
Hydrogen peroxide, a chemical compound used in various industrial and medical applications, has been falsely promoted on social media as a treatment for COVID-19 and other viral infections. Health organizations, including AAFA and the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Foundation, have debunked these claims, warning that inhaling hydrogen peroxide can cause severe tissue damage, respiratory irritation, and other serious health complications.
Responding to the backlash, Samantha clarified on social media that she was merely suggesting an option based on her personal experience. She expressed disappointment with Dr. Cyriac's harsh words, especially his suggestion that she should be imprisoned. Samantha emphasized that she shared the treatment as someone seeking medical solutions, not as a celebrity, and without any financial gain or endorsement.
She acknowledged the complexity of navigating different treatment options, stating, "I've had so many well-meaning people suggesting Ayurveda, homeopathy, acupuncture, Tibetan medicine, pranic healing, etc. I heard them all out. I was merely doing something similar. Sharing something that worked for me, as an option."
Dr. Cyriac responded to Samantha's clarification by accusing her of "playing the victim card" and labeled her as "a serial offender in the context of healthcare misinformation."
Known for his educational content on social media under the handle 'theliverdoc,' Dr. Cyriac has faced multiple legal challenges over his critical stance on improperly prepared AYUSH remedies and their impact on liver health.