{
  "id": 18335824,
  "title": "PPB warns public against misuse of pharmaceutical products",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/ppb-warns-public-against-misuse-of-pharmaceutical-products",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-05T16:44:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "KBC",
    "slug": "kbc",
    "url": "https://www.kbc.co.ke/ppb-warns-public-against-misuse-of-pharmaceutical-products/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a warning to the public about the improper use of pharmaceutical products, emphasizing that it can lead to health risks. In an interview with media representatives, Pharmacy Practices Director Dr. Wilfred Ochieng advised individuals to follow medical advice when using medication. Ochieng stated that trending information should not replace scientifically proven evidence from qualified professionals. He clarified that a viral post claiming cetirizine could cause vaginal dryness or tightness was incorrect. Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to treat allergies such as allergic rhinitis or skin reactions. Dr. Ochieng stressed the importance of adhering to the correct dosage, as medicines are rigorously tested before market approval and have specific uses outlined by scientific evidence. He highlighted the PPB's role in ensuring safe medication use by regulating existing products. Ochieng urged the public to report any adverse reactions while using pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the need to inform authorities of any suspected adverse effects due to medication consumption.",
  "summary": "The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has cautioned the public against use of pharmaceutical products for the wrong purpose, saying it may cause harm to their health. In an interview with the media on Thursday at the PPB offices in Nairobi, Pharmacy Practices Director Dr. Wilfred Ochieng called on the public to use the medicine based […] The post PPB warns public against misuse of pharmaceutical…",
  "key_points": [
    "Pharmacy and Poisons Board warns against misuse of pharmaceutical products.",
    "Incorrect claim: Cetirizine causes vaginal dryness or tightness.",
    "PPB regulates medication use to ensure public safety."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}