In recent months, Spain has seen a worrying increase in the number of teenagers hospitalized after attempting a dangerous online challenge. In Málaga, doctors report that more and more minors are being admitted with severe poisoning after taking high doses of common painkillers. This trend is causing serious concern among specialists, as the consequences for young Spaniards’ health can be irreversible.
Health risks
According to RUSSPAIN.COM, doctors stress that even a slight overdose can lead to serious liver problems. Teenagers with low body weight or pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. In cases of mass drug intake, the risk of acute liver failure increases significantly. Medical professionals note that the first signs of poisoning may not appear immediately, but several hours later, making timely medical intervention more difficult.
Toxicology experts explain that the difference between a safe and a dangerous dose is minimal. At the same time, symptoms often resemble regular discomfort—weakness, nausea, abdominal pain. Parents and teachers should be especially alert to any complaints from teenagers if there is any suspicion of medication use without a doctor’s prescription.
The challenge and its consequences
A viral challenge spreading across social networks is encouraging teenagers to consume large quantities of painkillers in pursuit of dubious online popularity. Doctors warn that this practice is extremely dangerous and liken it to playing with one’s life. In cases of severe poisoning, urgent hospitalization and the use of special antidotes may be the only chance for survival. However, the effectiveness of treatment drops sharply if help is not provided within the first few hours after taking the drug.
Malaga has already reported cases where teenagers required intensive care, and in some instances, liver transplants were necessary. The medical community emphasizes that such experiments can end in tragedy, even for those who previously had no health issues.
Prevention and Responsibility
Doctors and child safety experts urge parents to store medications out of children’s reach. It is important to explain to teenagers that online popularity is not worth risking their lives. Educational institutions should also pay attention to preventing such incidents by informing students about the possible consequences of reckless behavior.
If poisoning is suspected, specialists advise seeking medical help immediately, without waiting for obvious symptoms to appear. Only timely intervention can prevent serious complications and protect one’s health.
In recent years, Spain has already seen surges of dangerous internet challenges involving the consumption of various substances. In 2024, several regions across the country reported similar incidents, with teenagers being hospitalized after taking part in such activities. At the time, experts also emphasized the importance of informing parents and teachers about emerging threats linked to the spread of information on social media. Medical professionals remind the public: even common medications can be deadly if misused.
