A US medical journal has warned against using an AI chatbot for health information after a case of rare bromism was reported. A 60-year-old man developed the condition by taking sodium bromide, which he obtained from the chatbot, despite reading that it should not be used as a replacement for table salt.
The article highlights how artificial intelligence can contribute to preventable adverse health outcomes. The authors suggest that AI apps like ChatGPT can generate scientific inaccuracies, lack critical discussion of results, and spread misinformation.
While the company behind the chatbot claims its new update will improve its ability to answer health-related questions and flag potential concerns, experts warn that it is not a replacement for professional help. Medical professionals should consider using AI when checking where patients obtained their information to prevent such cases.
The patient in question presented himself at the hospital with symptoms of psychosis, including paranoia about water consumption, facial acne, excessive thirst, and insomnia. The case highlights the need for caution when using AI-powered health information sources.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/aug/12/us-man-bromism-salt-diet-chatgpt-openai-health-information