The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has cautioned Kenyans against the misuse of antibiotics in the treatment of common viral infections such as colds and flu, warning that the practice poses serious health risks and undermines effective treatment.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 28, the regulator reminded the public that antibiotics are ineffective against viral illnesses and should only be used under professional guidance.
“Got a cold or flu? No antibiotics needed,” the Board stated. “If you’re suffering from a viral infection like the cold or flu, you can feel better without antibiotics. Rest and stay hydrated, eat nutritious food, and ask your healthcare professional for advice on symptom relief. Antibiotics don’t work against viruses. Let’s use them responsibly.”
The regulator stressed that inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to antimicrobial resistance, a growing global health concern that threatens the effectiveness of vital medicines.
The caution comes barely a week after the PPB raised the alarm over the off-label use of Semaglutide-containing compounds—popularly marketed abroad as Ozempic—for weight loss.
In a safety alert released on Tuesday, August 19, the Board warned Kenyans against unsupervised use of the prescription drug, which is officially approved only for the management of adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus that is not adequately controlled by other treatments.
“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,” the PPB stated.
The regulator listed possible side effects of misuse, including hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), acid reflux, nausea, intestinal obstruction, and even eye complications.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board, established under the Pharmacy and Poisons Act as Kenya’s National Medicines Regulatory Authority, reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that medicines and health products are safe, effective, and used appropriately.
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