Vaniqa Cream

The active ingredient in Vaniqa is eflornithine. Eflornithine works by blocking an enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). This enzyme is needed for hair follicle development and growth. Without it, the rate of hair growth slows down making it easier to manage excessive facial hair growth. Since it is only slowing down the rate of hair growth, it is not a depilatory (hair remover) so other methods must be continued alongside the use of Vaniqa.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, Patient Information Leaflet, and Medication Guide before using Vaniqa. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Vaniqa:

• After removing the facial hair, apply a thin layer of cream to affected areas of the face and/or under the chin twice a day at least 8 hours apart or as directed by your doctor. Make sure to apply to dry and unbroken skin. Avoid washing treated areas for at least 4 hours.
• Continue use of other hair removal techniques alongside regular use of Vaniqa such as plucking or waxing.
• Vaniqa is meant for external use only. Do not apply to anywhere other than the face.
• Wait for the Vaniqa cream to dry before using make-up, sunscreen, or other cosmetic products.

The most common side effects of Vaniqa seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Acne
• Folliculitis or razor bumps
• Skin irritation such as a stinging, tingling, or burning sensation
• Itchiness
• Dry skin
• Rash
• Redness
• Headache

If any of the above persist, please consult your healthcare provider.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Vaniqa. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Vaniqa, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• An allergy to any of the ingredients in Vaniqa cream (ceteareth-20, Cetearyl alcohol, dimethicone, glyceryl stearate, methylparaben, mineral oil, PEG-100 stearate, phenoxyethanol, propylparaben, stearyl alcohol).

Do not use Vaniqa if you have:

• A history of hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to eflornithine or any of the inactive ingredients in the product.

Typically, you can expect a reduction in the rate of hair growth within 4 to 8 weeks. In some individuals, it may take longer to see benefits. You may not see full effects right away but with regular use, you can expect gradual improvement in your excessive hair growth. If after 6 months of use, there is little to no improvement, discuss with your healthcare practitioner about stopping treatment and discussing alternatives. Clinical studies demonstrate that after discontinuation of Vaniqa, it will take 8 weeks for the hair to return to its original rate of growth before treatment.

When Vaniqa is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking, including other medications or products applied topically to the skin.

The strength of eflornithine in Vaniqa is 13.9% and the cream is available as a 30- and 45-gram tube.

Vaniqa should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze and keep out of reach of children.

Vaniqa is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Allergan.

No, there is a generic version of the brand name Vaniqa available at UDS.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Vaniqa. This includes medications or products you may apply to the skin.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Vaniqa passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.