Centrizine Ni Sumu–PPB Warns Kenyans Against Misusing Cetirizine Following Viral Social Media Claims

Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a public health warning following misleading claims circulating on social media about the use of cetirizine.

The medicine is commonly used to treat allergies. It is an antihistamine that helps relieve symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and skin reactions.

In a safety alert issued on November 4, 2026, the PPB clarified that cetirizine is intended for oral use.

The regulator said the medicine has not been approved for vaginal use or for the purpose of tightening. It also stated that there is no established scientific evidence supporting such claims.

The warning follows social media posts encouraging women to misuse the medicine for purposes it was not designed for.

The PPB cautioned that inserting oral tablets into the vagina can cause irritation, burning, soreness, pain and discomfort.

The practice can also interfere with the body’s natural protective environment and increase the risk of infections.

The regulator further warned against taking more cetirizine than the recommended dose.

An overdose can cause excessive sleepiness, dizziness, tiredness, restlessness and confusion. Other reported effects include shaking, a rapid heartbeat and difficulty passing urine.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya has also raised concerns over the misinformation. The society stressed that cetirizine is an oral allergy medicine and has not been tested or approved for vaginal use.

Pharmacists also warned against confusing dryness with tightening. They explained that reduced lubrication does not strengthen muscles or change the body’s anatomy.

The health authorities have urged Kenyans not to experiment with medicines based on unverified information found online.

People experiencing concerns about their health have been advised to seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals.

The PPB also urged members of the public to use medicines only for their approved purposes and according to professional medical advice.

The warning comes as health authorities monitor the spread of misleading medicine-related claims on social media.

Officials have urged social media users and content creators to verify health information before sharing it.

The regulator also encouraged members of the public to report suspected medicine-related side effects through its pharmacovigilance channels.

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