Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board has warned the public against using cetirizine tablets to achieve vaginal tightening or dryness, cautioning that misleading health claims circulating on social media could expose women to serious health risks.

In a public safety alert dated 4 November 2026, the Board said it had become concerned about claims suggesting that the common allergy medication could be used for vaginal purposes.

The regulator stressed that cetirizine is an antihistamine intended to relieve allergy symptoms, including allergic rhinitis and urticaria. It is designed for oral use and should only be taken according to instructions from a qualified healthcare professional.

The Board made clear that the medicine is not approved for vaginal application or tightening. It also said there is no established scientific evidence supporting its use for either purpose.

Regulator warns of irritation and infections

The Board warned that inserting cetirizine tablets into the vagina could cause irritation, burning, soreness, pain and discomfort.

It also cautioned that using medicines not designed for vaginal application could interfere with the vagina's natural protective environment and increase the risk of infections.

The warning comes amid the circulation of unverified health advice online, where claims about using the allergy medication for intimate health purposes have attracted attention.

The regulator also raised concerns about taking more than the recommended dose. Excessive consumption of cetirizine can cause several side effects, including:

  • Excessive sleepiness and dizziness.

  • Tiredness and restlessness.

  • Confusion and shaking.

  • A rapid heartbeat.

  • Difficulty passing urine.

The Board urged Kenyans not to experiment with medicines based on social media recommendations.

Kenyans advised to seek medical guidance

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board advised women experiencing vaginal dryness or other sexual health concerns to consult qualified healthcare professionals rather than rely on unverified remedies.

It also reminded the public that cetirizine should only be used for its approved purposes and through the recommended route.

"Do not insert cetirizine tablets or other oral medicines into the vagina," the Board stated in its advisory.

Anyone who suspects they have experienced a medicine-related side effect can report it through the Board's pharmacovigilance channels.

These include its online reporting portal, the mPvERS mobile application, or email addresses provided in the advisory.

The Board listed the following reporting contacts:

The advisory was signed by Pharmacy and Poisons Board Chief Executive Officer Dr Ahmed I. Mohamed on 4 November 2026.

The regulator said public cooperation was essential in protecting Kenyans and ensuring medicines remained safe and effective.