Kenyan pharmacists warn against using drug for genital tightening

The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya has issued a warning against using an antihistamine commonly found in allergy tablets as a method for vaginal tightening. The society cautioned against inserting the drug into the vagina, emphasizing that it is designed for oral consumption to relieve allergy symptoms. In a statement released on November 5, the President of the society, Dr. Wairimu Njuki, explained that the drug functions by blocking histamine to alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin reactions.

However, the public should be aware that the drug is not approved or tested for vaginal use, and the notion that vaginal dryness equates to vaginal tightening is medically inaccurate. The society further explained that inserting oral tablets into the vagina is unsafe, as their ingredients have not been tested on delicate vaginal tissue.

They advised the public to take the drug only as directed on the label or by a pharmacist or medical doctor. The PSK also urged people not to rely on social media for medical information, citing the rapidly circulating unverified health claims as a significant risk to public health. They urged pharmacists to adhere to professional ethics and ensure that patients needing the drug for allergies are not left without it.

The society emphasized that the public should purchase medicines only from licensed premises where a registered pharmacist is present. PSK encouraged social media content creators to exercise responsibility when sharing health-related information, ensuring it is evidence-based and communicated in a manner that protects rather than endangers the public.

The society reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, the Ministry of Health, and fellow healthcare professionals to enhance medicine safety and protect the public from harmful practices.