The Ministry of Health has warned Kenyans to stop misusing cetirizine, a common allergy tablet. The drug went viral online after claims that it reduces vaginal lubrication and creates a feeling of tightness during sex. Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga issued the warning on Wednesday at a Health Products and Technologies stakeholder meeting in Nairobi.
Oluga said he had seen people discussing the medicine as if it were a joke. He warned that such talk pushes some people to misuse medicines. According to Pulse Live Kenya, the trend took off on X, where users claimed that inserting the tablets into the vagina cuts natural secretions. The Eastleigh Voice reported that some users also suggested taking the drug by mouth before sex.
Pulse Live Kenya reported that the claims have triggered panic buying in Nairobi. Pharmacists in the city report serious stock shortages. Prices have reportedly climbed to three times their normal level.
Oluga said the government could build a system to trace everyone who buys cetirizine. He said authorities might also use directly observed therapy where needed to ensure patients take medicines properly. He called for tracking of the whole supply chain: who made the drug, who sold it and which patient received it. The ministry said this data would help community health promoters reach buyers and teach them safe use.
Cetirizine is an oral antihistamine that relieves sneezing, a runny nose, itchy skin and watery eyes, the Eastleigh Voice reported, citing the World Health Organisation. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, dizziness and dry mouth. No scientific evidence shows that it tightens vaginal muscles or improves elasticity. The tablets are not designed for vaginal use and can cause irritation if used that way.
Pulse Live Kenya cited Canadian gynaecologist Jen Gunter, who said that drying out the vagina can lead to friction, tissue tears and painful sex. The outlet reported that such small tears can raise the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV and HPV.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board urged Kenyans to report suspected side effects from medicines through its pharmacovigilance system. The ministry told the public not to experiment with drugs based on unverified social media claims.