Cetirizine is commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms
The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has cautioned women against inserting allergy medication into their vaginas to achieve tightness, describing the practice as dangerous and medically unsupported.
The warning follows the growing popularity of online claims encouraging the use of cetirizine, an antihistamine commonly prescribed to relieve allergic reactions, as a means of reducing vaginal moisture and supposedly improving sexual satisfaction.
Health professionals have clarified that although the drug may cause dryness, it cannot strengthen vaginal muscles or produce genuine tightening.
The PSK explained that reduced lubrication could instead result in painful intercourse, excessive friction and possible damage to sensitive tissues.
The association further stressed that cetirizine is manufactured for oral consumption, adding that its safety and ingredients have not been evaluated for application inside the vagina.
The controversial practice gained attention earlier this week after TikTok users began circulating recommendations suggesting that the medication could create a tighter sensation during sexual activity.
The claims triggered mixed reactions online, with some individuals endorsing the method while others raised concerns about its potential health complications.
Reports have also indicated a surge in purchases, increased retail costs and limited supplies of the medicine in several pharmacies, particularly in Nairobi.
In a statement released on Thursday, the pharmacists’ association reiterated that the drug is intended exclusively for treating allergic conditions such as sneezing, nasal discharge, itchy eyes and skin irritation.
It advised women who have experimented with the method to discontinue immediately and seek medical attention if they experience bleeding, discomfort, itching, burning sensations, abnormal discharge or fever.
The organisation also appealed to digital content creators to exercise responsibility when publishing medical information, warning that misleading online recommendations could expose the public to serious health consequences.
The advisory comes after Kenya’s Ministry of Health raised similar concerns about the growing practice.
A senior health official, Ouma Oluga, criticised the apparent disregard for professional medical guidance, observing that some internet users were making light of warnings without appreciating the possible dangers.
He also proposed introducing a mechanism to monitor pharmaceutical sales and distribution to identify potential cases of medication abuse. However, the government has yet to announce any official implementation plans.
Meanwhile, the PSK acknowledged concerns over increased market demand, inflated prices and supply disruptions, cautioning pharmaceutical retailers against taking advantage of the situation.
It noted that the development could prevent patients who depend on the medication for legitimate allergy treatment from accessing essential supplies.
Pharmacists were consequently encouraged to refuse knowingly inappropriate requests for the drug and notify relevant health regulators of any adverse reactions associated with its misuse.
The association concluded by reminding the public that medicines should only be taken according to approved instructions, urging individuals to consult qualified pharmacists rather than depend on unverified internet recommendations.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong