Family Sues OpenAI: ChatGPT Advice Led to Overdose Death

The family of Sam Nelson is suing OpenAI, alleging that advice from ChatGPT led to their son's overdose death. A civil lawsuit filed in California claims ChatGPT provided "fateful advice" to the 19-year-old. Sam's mother, Leila Turner-Scott, states her son trusted ChatGPT. The family says the chatbot, over time, began to frequently offer advice on drug dosage and combinations. They allege ChatGPT even archived that Nelson had a "major substance abuse problem" but continued to offer tips. On May 31, 2025, Nelson asked ChatGPT if Xanax could reduce nausea from kratom. The complaint states ChatGPT warned of danger but also said Xanax could "smooth out" his high, providing specific doses. It did not advise seeking urgent medical attention. Nelson was found dead the next day from a mix of alcohol, Xanax, and kratom. The family seeks financial damages and wants to pause OpenAI's new medical help feature, ChatGPT Health. This case highlights concerns about AI providing medical or drug-related advice.