The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has warned Kenyans against misusing cetirizine following the circulation of misleading claims on social media suggesting that the allergy medication can be used to cause vaginal dryness or achieve vaginal tightening.
The Board cautioned against inserting cetirizine tablets into the vagina, warning that the practice could expose users to health complications.
The regulator clarified that cetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, including allergic rhinitis and urticaria (hives). It is formulated for oral administration and should only be taken as directed by a qualified healthcare professional.
“Cetirizine is not approved for vaginal use or tightening, and there is no established scientific evidence supporting its use for this
purpose.” The statement reads in part.
The warning comes amid concerns over unverified health advice circulating online, with the regulator urging Kenyans to avoid experimenting with medicines for purposes for which they have not been approved.
According to the Board, inserting cetirizine tablets into the vagina may cause irritation, burning, soreness, pain and discomfort. It could also interfere with the vagina’s natural protective environment, potentially increasing the risk of infections.
Cetirizine works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions. It is commonly used to manage symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and skin rashes. MedlinePlus+1
The Board also cautioned against taking more than the recommended dose, noting that excessive consumption can cause several adverse effects, including extreme sleepiness, dizziness, tiredness, restlessness, confusion, shaking, a rapid heartbeat and difficulty passing urine.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has joined a growing list of medical bodies and authorities, including the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya and the Ministry of Health, in raising concerns over widespread misinformation surrounding the use of the drug.
The regulator has urged the public not to insert cetirizine or any other oral medication into the vagina and to use medicines strictly for their approved purposes and through the recommended routes of administration.
“Inserting cetirizine tablets into the vagina may cause irritation,burning, soreness, pain, or discomfort.
“Using health products not intended for vaginal use may also disrupt the vagina’s natural protective environment and increase the risk of infections.”
Meanwhile women experiencing vaginal dryness, discomfort or other sexual health concerns have been advised to seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals rather than relying on unverified remedies shared on social media.
