The article digs a little deeper after. Saying the chat records are lost, and that when they asked ChatGPT, it didn't give that guidance about cleaning purposely only, and that it never asked why they wanted to know.
Really though, this could have just as easily happened in a google search. It's not ChatGPT's fault as much as this persons fault for using a non-medical professional for medical guidance.
Can I replace sodium chloride with sodium bromide?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, in some cases — but it depends on the application.
Chemistry/lab use: Both are salts of sodium and dissolve similarly, but bromide is more reactive in some contexts and heavier. It can change reaction outcomes, especially in halide-sensitive reactions (e.g., silver halide precipitation).
Food use: No — sodium bromide is toxic and not approved as a food additive.
Industrial processes: Sometimes interchangeable (e.g., certain brines, drilling fluids) if bromide’s different density, solubility, and cost are acceptable.
Really though, this could have just as easily happened in a google search. It's not ChatGPT's fault as much as this persons fault for using a non-medical professional for medical guidance.