‘Dangerous trend’ Hyderabad docs slam Samantha’s hydrogen peroxide inhalation advice

Hyderabad: Dr Abby Philips, known as Liverdoc on social media, criticised Tollywood actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu for recommending inhaling hydrogen peroxide for flu relief on Instagram leading the actor to clarify with a statement. It sparked a debate about the dissemination of health advice on social media and the responsibilities of influencers.

Liverdoc’s response

Dr Philips responded by labelling Samantha as a ‘health and science illiterate’ for promoting such advice. He highlighted the dangers of inhaling hydrogen peroxide, referencing warnings from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Dr Philips stressed that in a scientifically progressive society, such actions could warrant serious consequences, such as fines or imprisonment, for endangering public health.

He also questioned whether India’s Health Ministry or any regulatory body would address the issue of social media influencers spreading harmful health misinformation or continuing to remain inactive.

Samantha’s statement

“In response to the criticism, I want to explain my actions. Over the last couple of years, I have tried various medicines and treatments, many of which were expensive and not always effective for me. This led me to explore alternative therapies, including the one I mentioned in my post, which worked well for me and were more affordable. My intention was not to strongly advocate any treatment but to share my experience and provide options for those who might find conventional treatments financially draining,” the statement said.

“My recommendation came from a highly qualified doctor, an MD who served in DRDO for 25 years and chose to advocate an alternative therapy. While I respect Dr Philips’ knowledge and intentions, I found his approach provocative. A polite debate with my doctor would have been more constructive. I shared my experience not as a celebrity, but as someone seeking effective medical treatments,” Samantha said in her statement.

Opinions of medical experts in Hyderabad

Several Hyderabad doctors emphasised the dangers of inhaling hydrogen peroxide:

Dr DB Ganapathi, a pulmonologist at Apollo Healthcare, noted, “A concerning and dangerous trend is circulating on social media channels like Facebook, Twitter and reels. People are breathing in hydrogen peroxide through steaming to try to prevent or treat cases of flu or asthma.”

“When in reality hydrogen peroxide can be toxic if ingested, inhaled or by contact with the skin or eyes. Inhalation of household strength hydrogen peroxide (3%) can cause respiratory irritation,” Dr Ganapathi added.

Dr K Shirish said, “Hydrogen peroxide is not a cure for any infectious disease. There is no evidence that hydrogen peroxide can cure the common cold, Covid-19, HIV, cancer, or any other disease. This product should not be used to treat deep wounds, animal bites, serious burns or for cases of flu and colds either.”

What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is found in many bleaches, dyes, cleansers, antiseptics, and disinfectants.

“It has various uses, such as for skin care and oral hygiene, and is sometimes also used as a mild antiseptic on the skin to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It releases oxygen when applied to the affected area, causing foaming that helps to remove dead skin and clean the area. However, incorrect use or higher concentrations can lead to serious safety concerns,” said Dr KV Madhusudhan, a pulmonologist at KIMS hospital.

Potential side effects

The doctors outlined the potential side effects of hydrogen peroxide poisoning:

1. Respiratory Issues: Inhaling hydrogen peroxide can lead to a burning nose, throat, and chest, causing respiratory irritation.

2. Severe Health Risk: Higher concentrations (10% or more) can result in severe pulmonary issues, including bronchitis and pulmonary oedema.

3. Gastrointestinal Damage: Ingesting higher concentrations can cause ‘severe gastrointestinal burning and erosion, ulceration and perforation, and death,’ as highlighted by Dr Subhakar.