Introduction

Eflornithine hydrochloride reduces the hair growth on the face. The topical cream interacts with the chemical present in the hair follicles of the skin and reduces the hair growth. It is used to reduce the growth of unwanted facial hair in women. It, permanently, neither removes hair nor it cures unwanted facial hair, but it simply helps to manage your condition and improve your appearance.

Eflornithine topical is meant for external use only. Under the brand name Vaniqa, it comes in the form of cream to be applied on the face. Continuous use of the Eflornithine HCl cream is advocated even if the result is not immediately seen. It may take a period of 4 to 8 weeks to show improvements. It gradually reduces the growth of unwanted facial hair. If after six months of use, no change is marked, then only you should discontinue it.

Drug Composition

Along with Eflornithine HCl, generic Vaniqa is composed of ceteareth-20, cetearyl alcohol, dimethicone, glyceryl stearate, methylparaben, mineral oil, PEG-100 stearate, phenoxyethanol, propylparaben, stearyl alcohol and water and is indicated for the reduction of unwanted facial hair in women.

Dosage

Vaniqa should be used as directed by a physician or as per the directions prescribed on the instruction manual. It must be applied twice daily at an interval of 8 hours. A thin layer of the Eflornithine HCl cream should be applied on the affected area of the face and under the chin. It should be rubbed in thoroughly and left out to be absorbed into the skin. The treated area should not be washed for 4 hours after applying the cream. You can apply cosmetics and cream over the affected area only after the cream has dried.

Side Effects

The most frequent side effects of generic Vaniqa cream are related to skin. The side effects caused due to application of the cream are very mild and may disappear without any treatment. But, the symptoms of bleeding skin, cheilitis, contact dermatitis, swelling of lips, herpes simplex, numbness and rosacea should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Drug Contraindications

Anyone who has developed any allergies to the drug should not use it. If you are either pregnant or breast feeding, then you should avoid using this medicine until prescribed by your doctor. Children younger than 12 years of age should not be given Vaniqa treatment.

Information for Patients

Because the generic Vaniqa cream is not a depilatory, the patients treated with this cream are required to continue using a hair removal method (e.g., shaving, plucking, etc.) along with the Eflornithine hydrochloride cream.

If you experience any kind of skin irritation or intolerance, then you can temporarily reduce the frequency of application of the cream. You may just use it once in a day. But if the irritation still continues even after reducing the usage, it is advisable to give up the treatment with this drug.

Storage Tips

Store it in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children and pet. Avoid direct heat and light. Do not freeze it.