The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has warned Kenyans against using off-label semaglutide compounds, such as Ozempic, for weight loss. The PPB says that the drug is a prescription-only medicine and that its misuse could lead to serious health complications.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the PPB noted that, while the medicine is effective in managing type 2 diabetes that is not adequately controlled, its use for purposes other than those approved continues to raise safety concerns.

“Semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine and should not be used without medical supervision.’ It is approved for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus that is insufficiently controlled. While the benefits of semaglutide outweigh its risks, serious safety concerns continue to be raised, particularly when it is used outside its approved medical purposes,” the Board said.

The PPB explained that semaglutide, which is commonly marketed under the brand name Ozempic, among others, can lead to side effects ranging from mild to severe. The most common risks include low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), eye conditions, acid reflux disease and intestinal obstruction.

The Board urged members of the public to refrain from off-label use of the drug and encouraged them to report suspected side effects or poor-quality medicines via the official reporting channels.

These channels include the Pharmacovigilance Electronic Reporting System at pv.pharmacyboardkenya.org; email at pv@ppb.go.ke; telephone on +254 795 743 049; and the public USSD code *271#.

“The Board appreciates your continued support and collaboration in promoting the safe use of medicines,” it said.

The drug has been increasingly used for weight loss across the country, and reports have emerged about counterfeit versions circulating on the market.

Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni recently addressed concerns over the misuse of Ozempic in Kenya, confirming that swift regulatory action is being taken to protect consumers and ensure that all pharmaceuticals are prescribed and dispensed responsibly.