🚨 Pharmacy and Poisons Board Issues Urgent Warning on Misuse of Diabetes Drug Ozempic for Weight Loss ⚠️

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans about the off-label and unsupervised use of semaglutide-containing drugs, popularly sold under the brand name Ozempic, for weight loss.

Dr. Fred Siyoi, CEO of the PPB, emphasized that semaglutide is a prescription-only medication intended for the management of type 2 diabetes. Its use without medical supervision, particularly for cosmetic weight loss, can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications.

💊 What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a potent medication approved for adults with type 2 diabetes whose condition is not sufficiently controlled with other treatments. It works by regulating blood sugar levels and supporting insulin release. While highly effective for its intended purpose, semaglutide is not a general weight-loss drug.

PPB warns that recent trends, amplified by social media, have encouraged self-prescription and unauthorized sales of semaglutide for cosmetic weight loss—an unsafe practice that bypasses essential medical oversight.

⚠️ Risks and Side Effects

Dr. Siyoi highlighted the serious health risks associated with unsupervised use of semaglutide:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – can be dangerous and life-threatening.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (acid reflux) – causing severe digestive discomfort.
• Intestinal blockages – potentially requiring urgent medical attention.
• Vision-threatening complications – due to rapid changes in blood sugar levels.
• Other eye and kidney issues, particularly if underlying health conditions exist.

“These side effects can escalate quickly without medical supervision,” Dr. Siyoi warned.

📈 Why Misuse is Rising

The PPB has observed a concerning trend fueled by social media influencers and unauthorized online sales, promoting semaglutide as a quick-fix weight-loss solution. This off-label usage undermines public safety, putting individuals at serious risk of complications.

🛑 Public Guidance and Reporting

Kenyans are urged to:

• Avoid self-prescribing semaglutide for weight loss.
• Do not purchase from unverified online sources or unauthorized sellers.
• Report any adverse effects or suspected counterfeit products immediately.

Official Reporting Channels:

• Pharmacovigilance Electronic Reporting System: pv.pharmacyboardkenya.org
• Email: pv@ppb.go.ke
• Phone: +254 795 743 049
• USSD Code (for the public): *271#

Dr. Siyoi stressed, “The PPB is committed to ensuring safe and rational use of medicines, and powerful treatments like semaglutide should only be used under expert medical supervision.”

🔍 Takeaway

While semaglutide is a life-changing medication for diabetes patients, misuse for cosmetic weight loss is dangerous. Kenyans are urged to follow medical guidance, avoid shortcuts promoted online, and report unsafe practices.