The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a public safety alert warning Kenyans against the misuse of cetirizine, an allergy medication, following misleading claims circulating on social media that the drug can cause vaginal dryness or achieve vaginal tightening.
In a public notice, the Board clarified that cetirizine is an antihistamine designed to relieve allergy symptoms, including allergic rhinitis and urticaria. The medication is intended strictly for oral use and should only be taken as directed by a qualified healthcare professional.
The Board stressed that cetirizine is neither approved nor scientifically proven for vaginal use or tightening, cautioning women against following misleading health advice circulating online.
It warned that inserting cetirizine tablets into the vagina may cause irritation, burning, soreness, pain and discomfort. Such misuse could also interfere with the vagina’s natural protective environment, potentially increasing the risk of infections.
The Board further cautioned against taking more than the recommended dosage, noting that an overdose may cause excessive sleepiness, dizziness, tiredness, restlessness, confusion, shaking, rapid heartbeat and difficulty passing urine.
The public has been urged to use medicines only for their approved purposes and seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals rather than relying on unverified social media claims.
Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board public safety alert.
