Man Hospitalised After Following ChatGPT Diet Advice That Caused Rare Bromide Poisoning
Man Hospitalised After Following ChatGPT Diet Advice That Caused Rare Bromide Poisoning
Doctors say it could be the first documented case of AI-linked bromism
A man in the US was hospitalised with a rare, life-threatening condition after following dietary advice allegedly given by ChatGPT, in what doctors believe may be the first documented case of AI-linked bromide poisoning.
The case, published in Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases by University of Washington doctors, details how the man consumed sodium bromide for three months as a substitute for table salt, believing it was safe. He later revealed he had adopted the practice after asking ChatGPT for alternatives to chloride. The AI reportedly mentioned bromide without warning of its dangers.
Bromide compounds, once used in medicines for anxiety and insomnia, were phased out decades ago due to links with serious health risks. Today, bromide is mainly found in veterinary drugs and certain industrial products, and human poisoning — known as bromism — is extremely rare.
The man first presented to an emergency room with paranoia, hallucinations, and confusion, believing his neighbour was poisoning him. His condition rapidly worsened into a full psychotic episode, leading to an involuntary psychiatric hold. Lab tests initially suggested high chloride levels, but Poison Control later identified bromism as the cause.
He was treated with intravenous fluids, electrolyte correction, and antipsychotic medication. After three weeks in hospital, his mental state returned to normal.
Doctors warn the case highlights the risks of relying on AI for medical advice. “These tools can make scientific knowledge more accessible, but they lack context, risk awareness, and the ability to tailor guidance safely,” they wrote.
