Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has raised the alarm over the rising misuse of semaglutide medicines, popularly known by brand names such as Ozempic, for weight loss. While these injections have become trendy among influencers and celebrities, health officials stress that their use outside medical supervision can be dangerous.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes that is not well controlled by other treatments. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body to lower blood sugar levels and in some cases, reduce appetite. This explains why it has become popular for weight loss, even though that is not its primary purpose.

Why the Concern?

According to PPB Chief Executive Officer Dr. Fred Siyoi, using semaglutide without a doctor’s guidance can lead to serious health risks. Reported side effects include:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

• Eye complications

• Acid reflux

• Intestinal obstruction

These effects can range from mild to severe, depending on the person. Dr. Siyoi stressed that semaglutide should only be used under the care of a qualified health professional and only for approved medical reasons.

Why the Sudden Popularity?

Globally, Ozempic has been branded on social media as a “miracle weight-loss jab.” Influencers and celebrities are openly endorsing it, driving demand even among people without diabetes. Health experts fear this hype could fuel black-market sales, unsafe self-injections and preventable medical complications.

What Should the Public Do?

The PPB is urging Kenyans to avoid off-label use of semaglutide and to report any suspected side effects or poor-quality products through its official reporting channels.