Teenagers Use Cancer Drug 'Erdafitinib' Amid Social Media 'Heightmaxxing' Trend
A social media trend called 'heightmaxxing' has led some teenagers to take erdafitinib, a cancer drug, hoping to increase their height. This practice stems from reports of unexpected growth in children treated with the drug for cancer. Teenagers like 17-year-old Zak from New York have purchased the drug online despite potential health risks, including nosebleeds and joint pain. Experts warn that erdafitinib is not approved for height increase and may cause serious side effects.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is negative (33/100). Lens Score 43/100.
Outlets measured: moneycontrol, ndtv. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (28–38/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
ndtv broke this story on 6 Nov, 03:20 pm. Other outlets followed.