Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently found herself at the center of controversy after suggesting the use of hydrogen peroxide nebulisation for treating viral infections. This led to her clarifying her stance in response to the backlash.
However, her recommendation didn’t sit well with Ricky Kej, the Grammy Award-winning composer, who criticized her for promoting what he views as a potentially dangerous medical practice.
Ricky Kej’s criticism came into the limelight
Ricky Kej’s criticism came into the limelight after a healthcare professional labeled Samantha as lacking in health and science knowledge on social media, a claim that Samantha contested by calling the individual impolite. Ricky supported the healthcare professional’s stand in Samantha’s comments section.
In an interaction with Hindustan Times, Ricky expressed his dismay and disappointment over Samantha’s endorsement of a risky medical approach. He emphasized the danger of celebrities advocating medical treatments without understanding the possible life-threatening consequences.
“It concerns me that celebrities who have significant influence might encourage risky medical treatments,” he mentioned. Ricky also highlighted the problem with people seeking alternative treatments due to distrust in conventional medicine, stressing the importance of stringent regulations to prevent celebrities from promoting medical procedures.
Ricky found it puzzling
Ricky found it puzzling when Samantha defended her initial recommendation, insisting that her intention was good, propelled by her own health struggles and learnings. However, Ricky took issue with her doubling down and subtly criticizing the doctor who questioned her advice.
“Her reinforcement of her stance was troubling. To me, it was worse than the initial advocacy as it appeared dismissive of the legitimate criticism raised by the healthcare professional,” he pointed out.
Ricky also called attention to the broader issue of celebrities endorsing products or practices without sufficient regard for their health implications. He argued for stronger enforcement of existing regulations to prevent celebrities from dispensing medical advice, which could potentially endanger health.
Samantha’s own health journey
Additionally, the article touches upon Samantha’s own health journey, mentioning her openness about dealing with Myositis, and clarifies that her endorsement of hydrogen peroxide nebulisation wasn’t paid but a personal anecdote meant to help others.
Nevertheless, she acknowledged the need for caution, particularly in light of the strong reaction from Dr Abby Philips, aka The Liver Doc, who harshly criticized her for spreading misinformation.
“Despite the backlash, it’s important to approach such discussions with kindness, even though it comes with the territory of being a public figure,” Samantha reflected, addressing the critique.