Want to be taller? The alarming and dangerous trend among teenagers

Doctors are warning about a dangerous trend among teenagers who are taking a bladder cancer drug in an attempt to grow taller. The drug, purchased online, can cause irreversible damage, while its effect on height is unproven.

Doctors are warning about a dangerous trend among teenagers, primarily boys, who are taking a drug intended for bladder cancer in an attempt to increase their height. The drug, erdafitinib, is purchased illegally online without a prescription. Experts emphasize that taking it can cause damage to growth plates, fractures, vision impairment, nosebleeds, skin and nail changes, and severe muscle and bone pain. The risks are particularly high in the developing bodies of adolescents. The trend gained momentum following online posts based on preliminary research, but the drug's effectiveness for increasing height has not been proven, and many scientists dispute the findings. Johnson & Johnson, the drug's manufacturer, clarified that it is not approved for this purpose. Doctors urge parents and teenagers to avoid this dangerous experiment.