The Ministry of Health has warned Kenyans against misusing cetirizine, an allergy medication that has recently gained attention on social media following claims that it can suppress sexual desire.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga issued the warning on Wednesday, November 4, during a High-Level Health Products and Technologies (HPT) Stakeholder Meeting in Nairobi.
Oluga expressed concern that online discussions were influencing how members of the public use medicines, potentially encouraging unsafe practices and inappropriate medication use.
Health Ministry flags dangerous cetirizine trend among Kenyans. Photo: Courtesy.
The trend has reportedly involved women using cetirizine on their intimate areas in an attempt to reduce sexual desire.
The PS said the government could consider establishing a system to track individuals purchasing certain medicines and follow up where there are concerns about misuse. He also mentioned directly observed therapy as one possible measure authorities could explore.
Oluga further called for stronger monitoring of the medicine’s supply chain, including identifying its manufacturer, distributors, sellers and recipients.
He noted that tracing the movement of medicines could help authorities establish how products reach consumers and enable community health promoters to reach individuals who may be misusing them.
What Is Cetirizine?
Cetirizine is an antihistamine medication used to relieve allergy symptoms caused by histamine, a substance released by the body during allergic reactions.
It is commonly used to treat:
– Sneezing and a runny nose caused by allergies
– Itchy, watery eyes
– Itchy skin and hives
– Other symptoms associated with allergic reactions
Cetirizine is not approved as a treatment for suppressing sexual desire. Using it in ways other than those recommended can expose users to unwanted side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness and dry mouth.
Health authorities advise members of the public to use medicines only for their intended purposes and to seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals before using them.
