The Health Ministry has launched investigations into the rising misuse of Ozempic, which is a diabetes medication, that Kenyans are instead using for weight loss.
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni confirmed the investigation on Thursday, noting that the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) had taken up the matter following growing concerns from health professionals.
Ozempic, originally prescribed to manage Type 2 diabetes, has gained popularity for its weight-loss effects, prompting fears of shortages and potential health risks for patients who genuinely need it for diabetes management.
According to Muthoni, the ministry had noted with concern the growing number of Kenyans misusing the substance contrary to the health requirements.
She assured the public that the PPB will come up with a complete report, while warning Kenyans against self prescription o common medications.
''Our Pharmacy and Poisons Board ( PPB) is currently looking into all concerns over the misuse of Ozempic, and I am sure we will have a good report around that. Medications must always be prescribed by a qualified medical professional. Ensure that you do not walk into a pharmacy or a supermarket by yourself,'' Muthoni assured.
Ozempic was approved by US authorities to be used as a weight loss medication, and it has since garnered praise for its benefits, including instant weight loss as well as heart and kidney protection.
Many Kenyan celebrities have, in recent times, promoted the medication while flaunting how it has helped shed excess weight without necessarily embarking on a journey.
However, there is an emerging catch as medical experts are raising concerns about the safety of these medications for a specific group of people and the public in general.
Obese youth may be prescribed GLP-1 medications such as liraglutide, semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), or tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) to manage their weight. While these medications help the pancreas produce insulin, they carry potential risks, including hypoglycemia—dangerously low blood sugar—which can escalate into life-threatening ketosis.
Medical experts warn that misuse or unsupervised use of these medications can lead to serious complications, especially for individuals without diabetes. Despite their popularity for weight loss, the medications are intended for use under strict medical supervision.
Emerging research has also raised concerns about possible mental health effects linked to GLP-1 medications, an area that has remained largely unexamined amid the weight-loss trend driven by Ozempic's growing fame.
