Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has initiated disciplinary proceedings against a medical professional following the viral dissemination of a video containing dangerously misleading information about cholesterol medications. The controversial video, which circulated extensively across social media platforms, contained unsubstantiated claims regarding statin drugs that prompted numerous patients to abruptly discontinue their prescribed treatments without medical consultation.
The health authority confirmed it has formally summoned the physician responsible for the content to provide an official statement regarding the circulated misinformation. The ministry emphasized that the unauthorized cessation of statin medications exposes patients to significant health risks, particularly those with existing cardiovascular conditions requiring consistent pharmaceutical management.
In an official statement, the ministry reiterated that all medical decisions must be made exclusively under proper physician supervision rather than based on unverified social media content. The regulatory body further warned that legal measures will be enforced against any individual found to be distributing misleading medical information or violating established healthcare profession ethics.
This incident represents the latest in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to combat medical misinformation online, following recent actions against individuals spreading false information about criminal cases and inciting public opinion through digital channels. The ministry’s prompt response demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining evidence-based medical practices and protecting public health from potentially dangerous misinformation.