The Ministry of Health, through the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), has cautioned Kenyans against using Semaglutide—popularly known as Ozempic—for weight loss without medical supervision.
In a statement on Tuesday, August 19, PPB Chief Executive Officer Fred Siyoi clarified that the drug is strictly approved for treating adults with uncontrolled type two diabetes. He noted growing misuse of the medicine locally, fueled by its global reputation as a quick weight-loss solution.
“The Board wishes to bring to the attention of the public that Semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine and its unsupervised or off-label use may result in serious health outcomes,” PPB stated.
According to the Board, side effects of the drug range from hypoglycemia and acid reflux to severe complications such as intestinal obstruction. It added that only licensed healthcare professionals are authorised to prescribe the medicine.
PPB urged Kenyans to immediately report any suspected side effects or poor-quality products through its official reporting channels.
Globally, Ozempic has attracted attention for benefits beyond diabetes management, including weight loss and heart protection. In Kenya, several celebrities have openly promoted it as a slimming aid.
However, experts warn that misuse of the drug can trigger serious complications. Dr Kenneth Blum, a professor at Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University, observed that excessive use of such medicines could also pose mental health risks.
“This study should not be ignored, despite the hype surrounding the positive clinical outcomes of GLP1 receptor agonists. We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of ‘people dying to lose weight,’” Dr Blum stated.
