Cancer Claims By Movie Icon Sparks Surge in Controversial Drug Use

Comments made by actor and director Mel Gibson on Joe Rogan’s massively popular podcast are now being linked to a sharp rise in prescriptions for controversial, unproven cancer treatments. According to the New York Post…

Andrew PowellMay 13, 20262 min read

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Researchers found prescriptions tied to the combination surged in the months following the interview.

Among cancer patients specifically, prescriptions rose to more than two-and-a-half times previous levels, while rates in Southern states reportedly climbed to more than triple what they had been in 2024.

Medical experts warned, however, that there is still no reliable clinical evidence showing either drug safely or effectively treats cancer in humans.

Dr. Skyler B. Johnson of the University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute said laboratory and animal studies have shown limited anti-cancer effects, but the doses required would likely be considered toxic for human patients.

Johnson also warned the drugs could interfere with how the body processes legitimate cancer treatments and other medications.

Researchers behind the UCLA-led study expressed concern that patients may abandon proven treatments in favor of internet-driven alternatives.

“As a primary care doctor, I want my patients and people across the country to have the chance to get treatments we know can help them live longer, healthier lives,” senior study author Dr. John N. Mafi said.

“When prescribing for an unproven cancer treatment more than doubles after a single podcast, especially among men and people in the South, it raises a concern that patients may be skipping or delaying treatments we know work in favor of something that hasn’t been proven to help them,” he added.

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