WITH rise in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based health apps, internet searches, and Over the Counter (OTC) medicines, the trend of self-medication and quick fixes has increased manifold, indicating care-free stance on rise in society. Doctors have pressed panic buttons, saying AI might help spread awareness but depending entirely on AI tools, on-line advice, or medical shop suggestions can become dangerous and can become lifethreatening, at time. Today people commonly search symptoms on-line or use AI Doctor apps before opting for professional consultation. Many reuse old prescriptions, take painkillers repeatedly, or directly approach nearby pharmacy, explain symptoms and ask for medicines without medical examination.

 

Dr Nainesh Patel, MD, Respiratory Medicine, stated that AI can provide medical information and guide people towards awareness, but it cannot replace doctors, because it only processes data already fed by researchers and medical professionals. AI gives information, not treatment, it cannot think like a human doctor or understand emotions, body language, medical history, or complications. The same symptoms do not always mean the same disease,” he explained. Self-medication often suppresses symptoms temporarily, without treating the actual cause of illness. Sometimes patients reach hospitals very late because symptoms were hidden by medicines,” he said. He further warned that OTC medicines, especially antibiotics and steroids, are being consumed casually for prolonged periods. This can lead to wrong diagnosis, anti-microbial resistance, organ damage, and fatal health complications.

 

A headache may be due to stress, dehydration, high blood pressure, or even neurological problems. Similarly, fever could indicate a simple infection or a more serious illness. Taking the wrong medicine may temporarily suppress symptoms while the actual disease continues to worsen internally. Dr Sunil Naredi, Eye Surgeon, also expressed concern over blind dependence on AI-generated medical advice. If side effects happen after taking medicines suggested through AI or internet searches, who will be responsible, he questioned.

 

AI cannot replace the human brain, clinical judgement, or proper diagnosis by doctors. He further observed that many people avoid consulting doctors to save money, but end up risking their health. AI may sometimes create unnecessary fear or confusion because it lacks human touch and clinical understanding,” he added. Doctors agree that AI can be a useful supportive tool for awareness, education, and preliminary guidance, especially in remote areas. However,experts strongly emphasise that no technology can replace physical examination, diagnostic tests, and the experience of qualified medical professionals. They urge people not to rely solely on on-line searches, AI apps, or chemist suggestions for treatment decisions.