Govt cautions public against unsafe use of Ozempic for weight loss
By William Muthama, August 19, 2025The Ministry of Health has issued a safety alert warning Kenyans against the unsupervised or off-label use of semaglutide, commonly known as Ozempic, for weight loss due to serious health risks.
In a statement on its X account on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) emphasised that the prescription medication should only be used under proper medical supervision.
“Semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine, and its unsupervised or off-label use may result in serious health outcomes,” the statement read.
The Board clarified that the medication has approved uses and should not be taken for unauthorised purposes.
“Semaglutide, commonly known to the public as Ozempic and other generic names, is approved for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus that is insufficiently controlled,” the statement added.
While recognising its therapeutic value, PPB highlighted ongoing safety concerns when the drug is misused.
“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 stated.
Common side effects include low blood sugar, eye complications, acid reflux, and intestinal obstruction.
“Some of the most common side effects of semaglutide include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), eye conditions, acid (gastro-oesophageal) reflux disease, and intestinal obstruction, which can range from mild to severe,” the statement noted.
PPB urged the public to avoid off-label use and to report any suspected side effects or substandard products through official channels.
“The public is advised against the off-label use of the medicines and encouraged to report any suspected side effects and poor-quality products,” the statement said.
The Board concluded by stressing the importance of public participation in ensuring medication safety.
“The Board appreciates your continued support and collaboration in promoting the safe use of medicines,” it concluded.