The Ministry of Health has cautioned Kenyans against using cetirizine for purposes other than treating allergies, following a social media trend linking the medicine to reduced sexual desire.
Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga raised the concern on Wednesday, November 4, during a health products and technologies stakeholders’ meeting in Nairobi.
Oluga said online discussions about the medicine could encourage people to misuse it.
“I saw people discussing this medicine in a manner that is like a joke, but this also influences some sections of the public to misuse products and medicine,” he said.
The trend has reportedly involved women using cetirizine in their intimate areas in an attempt to suppress sexual desire.
Oluga said the government could consider a system to trace medicine purchases and follow up where misuse is suspected. He also called for closer monitoring of the medicine’s supply chain, including identifying its manufacturer, seller and recipient.
Cetirizine is an antihistamine taken orally to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and hives. It is not intended for insertion into the reproductive system.
The medicine can cause side effects including drowsiness, headache, dizziness and dry mouth. These effects do not mean it can safely or reliably reduce sexual desire.
The P & PB is responsible for the monitoring of drugs after licensing and has called on people to report any side effects that may arise through pharmacovigilance.
The Ministry advised Kenyans not to experiment with medication based on the information posted on social media sites.
