The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has warned that the widespread availability of cetirizine does not make it harmless when taken or applied outside its intended purpose.
In a statement on Thursday, November 5, 2026, PSK raised concerns over online advice encouraging women to insert the allergy medication into their intimate area.
This raised slot of concerns on social media after claims emerged that cetirizine could suppress sexual desire and tighten the vagina, prompting some women to experiment with inserting the tablets into their intimate areas.
“Social media has become an important platform for sharing health information. However, the rapid circulation of unverified medical claims presents significant risks to public health,” the society stated.
PSK warned that the tablets have not been tested or approved for vaginal application, making such use medically inappropriate.
It also dismissed claims linking vaginal dryness to tightening, explaining that reduced lubrication does not strengthen vaginal muscles or change the anatomy.
“See a doctor if you have pain, bleeding, burning, itching, unusual discharge, or fever. Your health matters, and you will be treated with respect and without judgement,” it added.
PSK clarified that cetirizine is an antihistamine designed to be swallowed and is commonly prescribed to relieve sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes and skin reactions such as hives.
The society further stated that some pharmacies had reported increased demand, higher prices and shortages of cetirizine, urging outlets to maintain ethical pricing and ensure allergy patients could still access the medicine.
