Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: EFLORNITHINE - TOPICAL (eh-FLOOR-nith-een)
BRAND NAME(S): Vaniqa
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to slow down the growth of unwanted facial hair in women. It interferes with an enzyme needed in the skin for hair growth but does not remove hair. This drug is not for use in children under the age of 12 years.
HOW TO USE: Apply a thin layer of this medication, at least 5 minutes after hair removal (e.g., plucking, shaving), to the affected areas of the face and chin. It is usually applied twice daily at least 8 hours apart, or as directed by your doctor. Do not wash the treated area for at least 4 hours. Cosmetics or sunscreens may be applied over the treated areas after the medication has dried. Continue to use hair removal techniques (e.g., shaving, plucking) while using this medication. Avoid getting this drug in your eyes or inside your nose or mouth. If this drug gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Rash, burning, stinging, tingling, or redness of the skin, or "hair bumps" (folliculitis) may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of these serious side effects: bleeding skin, swelling of the face or lips. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies, broken skin, sores on the face. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Ingrown Hair - What do ingrown hairs look like? Read about ingrown hair symptoms, signs, causes, treatment and prevention. Ingrown hairs may be caused by improper shaving, waxing or blockage of the hair follicle.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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