Kenyan pharmacists warn against vaginal use of allergy tablets

The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya warned on Thursday that cetirizine tablets are designed to be swallowed and should not be inserted into the vagina. The medicine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose and hives.

The BBC reported that posts circulating on TikTok claimed cetirizine could reduce vaginal moisture and create a feeling of tightness during sex. The number of people who have tried the practice is unclear.

The pharmacists’ society said that although antihistamines can cause dryness, reduced lubrication does not strengthen vaginal muscles or change the anatomy. Instead, it said, dryness can increase friction, discomfort and the risk of tissue injury.

Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board has also warned against vaginal use. Citizen Digital reported that the regulator said cetirizine was not approved for that purpose and that there was no established scientific evidence supporting its use for tightening.

The pharmacists’ society advised anyone who has tried the practice to stop and to see a doctor if they experience pain, bleeding, burning, itching, unusual discharge or fever.