Kaylah Walton
Actor Mel Gibson recently discussed a tough period in his life, focusing on his experience with COVID-19 and the consequences of the treatment he underwent.
On Joe Rogan‘s podcast, Gibson revealed that the antiviral medication remdesivir, which he took while sick, led him to suffer from temporary paralysis for three months.
Sadly, he also claimed that this medicine was linked to the demise of his long-time friend and gardener.
A Shared Experience of Illness
Gibson detailed that he contracted COVID-19 in 2020, shortly after his gardener fell ill as well. They both received treatment at the same hospital, where remdesivir was administered to them as per emergency use authorization during the pandemic.
Though Gibson managed to recover, his friend did not survive. He reflected on their situation, saying: “[My gardener and I] both went to the same hospital and he died and I didn’t. I think we both got remdesivir, which is not good. I couldn’t walk for three months after I had that stuff… because it kills you. I found that afterwards, it kills you.”
Remdesivir, created by Gilead Sciences and initially intended to treat Ebola, works by blocking an enzyme crucial for the replication of the virus. It was among the first drugs authorized for treating COVID-19 in the U.S. and was widely used, including in the case of former President Donald Trump. While some studies indicated it might reduce mortality when given early, its safety and long-term effectiveness have been questioned by some experts.
Examining the Risks
Gibson‘s assertions about remdesivir causing paralysis are not commonly reported side effects, as per the Cleveland Clinic, which cites allergic responses, respiratory problems, and gastrointestinal issues as typical reactions.
Nonetheless, COVID-19 itself may lead to neurological issues, such as paralysis due to nervous system inflammation. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that these symptoms can occur if the virus affects brain regions responsible for motor function.
The World Health Organization (WHO) fueled the discussion by releasing a study indicating that remdesivir did not meaningfully enhance recovery timelines or survival rates for hospitalized patients.
Embracing Health and Well-Being
After recovering, Gibson adopted a healthier lifestyle. He is following a 30:30:30 diet proposed by biohacker Gary Brecka, which emphasizes consuming 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking and then doing 30 minutes of steady cardio. The actor has also added regular sauna sessions and stem cell therapy to his wellness regimen.
Gibson confirmed his COVID-19 diagnosis in July 2020, sharing that he spent a week in a Los Angeles hospital before heading home. Although the experience had a lasting impact on him, he now seeks to lead a healthier and more balanced life.
His journey highlights the challenges of dealing with serious illnesses amidst a global health crisis and the complexities involved with early medical treatments.
