Delhi Man Critically Ill After Following AI Advice on HIV Medication
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A 45-year-old man in Delhi is critically ill with a rare and life-threatening drug reaction after self-administering HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) purchased without a prescription, based on guidance from an AI chat platform. The incident highlights growing concerns about the risks of relying on artificial intelligence for medical advice and regulatory gaps in access to critical medications.
A senior doctor involved in the treatment stated, “The patient is critical. Our immediate priority is to manage the drug reaction.” The man developed Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, after taking the medication for seven days.
The Perils of Self-Treatment
The patient sought the PEP drugs following a high-risk sexual encounter. Post-exposure prophylaxis is designed to prevent HIV infection when started within 72 hours of potential exposure, and is typically prescribed after a thorough medical evaluation. However, according to reports, the man obtained a full 28-day course directly from a local pharmacy without a prescription, acting on information provided by an AI chatbot.
He initially sought treatment at multiple hospitals for developing rashes and eye complications before being admitted to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, where he was diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This condition can cause extensive skin and mucosal damage, requiring intensive care.
Shifting Treatment Protocols and Regulatory Concerns
Doctors were particularly alarmed by the ease with which the patient was able to acquire the medication. “What surprised the doctors was that the patient was able to buy the drugs over the counter, especially when they are no longer routinely prescribed,” one treating physician noted. Current treatment protocols for HIV exposure have been revised, and these specific medications are no longer commonly prescribed by doctors.
Under national guidelines, HIV PEP requires a strictly monitored drug regimen initiated only after medical evaluation, risk assessment, baseline testing, and ongoing monitoring for adverse effects. Experts warn that unsupervised use of antiretroviral drugs can lead to life-threatening reactions, organ damage, and long-term health complications.
The Rise of AI in Healthcare and the Need for Oversight
This case underscores a growing trend of individuals turning to AI platforms for medical advice, bypassing qualified healthcare professionals. While AI tools can offer general information, doctors caution that they cannot replace clinical judgement, especially in high-risk situations.
“AI tools may offer general information, they cannot substitute clinical judgement, particularly in high-risk situations,” a medical expert emphasized. There is a growing call for standards to restrict the use of online AI platforms for direct health interventions. The incident highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the potential dangers of AI-driven self-treatment and to ensure access to appropriate medical care.
