Pharmacy Board Warns Against Unsupervised Use of Ozempic for Weight Loss

Nairobi, Kenya – The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a strong warning against the unsupervised use of Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic, cautioning that the diabetes drug is not approved for weight loss in Kenya.

PPB Chief Executive Dr. Fred Siyoi said the medicine is registered strictly for the management of type-2 diabetes in adults whose blood sugar is uncontrolled, and must only be prescribed by licensed healthcare professionals.

“Using Semaglutide without medical guidance exposes patients to serious risks,” Siyoi said in a statement, urging the public to report any adverse reactions through official PPB channels.

Risks of Misuse

Medical experts warn that inappropriate use of the drug can trigger low blood sugar, acid reflux, eye complications, and intestinal obstruction. The PPB stressed that the benefits of the medicine must always outweigh the risks, noting that off-label use for weight reduction could lead to hypoglycemia and other dangerous outcomes.

International studies have also raised concerns, linking overuse of injectable weight-loss drugs to mood disorders and mental health challenges, underscoring the need for strict medical supervision.

Global Craze Fuels Local Demand

The advisory comes amid a global surge in popularity of injectable weight-loss medications. In Kenya, the trend has been amplified by celebrity endorsements and social media influencers, driving up demand for Ozempic despite its limited approval.

Authorities say this has encouraged illegal sales and misuse, with some individuals obtaining the drug without prescriptions. The PPB vowed to work with law enforcement to clamp down on black-market distribution.

Healthier Alternatives

Health officials encouraged Kenyans looking to manage their weight to seek medical advice and consider evidence-based approaches such as balanced diets, exercise, and supervised treatment plans.

“The public must understand that there is no shortcut to safe weight management. Consultation with a doctor is essential before using any prescription drug,” the PPB said.

The Bigger Picture

Kenya’s warning aligns with similar advisories issued by regulators in the United States and Europe as global debates continue over the long-term safety of using diabetes drugs for weight loss.

For now, the PPB insists its priority is to protect patients from misuse, safeguard public health, and ensure prescription medicines are used only for approved purposes.