Kenya Ministry of Health warns against cetirizine misuse

The Kenyan Ministry of Health has issued a warning regarding the misuse of cetirizine, a common over-the-counter antihistamine used to treat allergies. A viral social media trend has encouraged individuals to consume the medication in excessive amounts, driven by unverified claims that it can suppress sexual desire.

Principal Secretary for Medical Services Ouma Oluga expressed concern during a stakeholder meeting in Nairobi, noting that online discussions are influencing the public to misuse medicine. Medical experts warn that exceeding the recommended 10 mg daily dose can lead to anticholinergic syndrome, characterized by a racing heartbeat, confusion, severe dehydration, and high body temperature. While direct fatalities from overdose are rare, the resulting neurological risks, such as hallucinations and aggression, can lead to fatal complications or accidental harm.

In response, the government is considering systems to trace the purchase and supply chain of the medication to monitor misuse and ensure better oversight from manufacturers to patients.