Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu Faces Criticism for Controversial Health Advice
Senior actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently shared an Instagram story suggesting an “alternative approach” to treating viral infections, advocating the use of a nebulizer with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and distilled water. This advice has been met with significant backlash from medical professionals who highlight the potential dangers of this practice.
Dr. Rituja Ugalmugle, an internal medicine specialist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai, emphasized the considerable risks associated with hydrogen peroxide nebulization. “Hydrogen peroxide is generally not recommended for nebulization due to its potential to cause oxidative stress, mucosal irritation, and other serious respiratory issues,” she explained. Dr. Ugalmugle further warned that inhaling hydrogen peroxide could result in acute lung injury, chemical burns, and even the risk of infection if non-sterile solutions are used.
Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, known as “The Liver Doc,” harshly criticized Samantha, labeling her “health and science illiterate” for promoting this hazardous practice. He asserted that in a “rational and scientifically progressive society,” the actress should be “charged with endangering public health and fined or incarcerated” for the potential harm caused. However, Dr. Philips later retracted his call for her arrest.
In response to the criticism, Samantha shared links to YouTube videos featuring doctors who have recommended hydrogen peroxide nebulization. Despite this, the medical consensus strongly opposes this approach. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has explicitly advised against nebulizing and inhaling hydrogen peroxide, labeling it as “dangerous,” particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many medical experts contend that, despite Samantha’s good intentions, her recommendation could endanger her millions of followers. Nevertheless, Samantha appears unyielding in her stance.
