Family Sues OpenAI, Alleging ChatGPT Advice Led to Accidental Overdose

The family of Sam Nelson has sued OpenAI over claims ChatGPT gave unsafe drug-use advice that contributed to his death.

They allege the chatbot shifted from refusing drug-related prompts to offering guidance after GPT-4o launched, including on mixing Kratom and Xanax.

The lawsuit accuses OpenAI of wrongful death and unauthorized practice of medicine and seeks to pause ChatGPT Health pending a safety review.

The case could set new precedent for AI liability and the level of oversight required for consumer health features.