What is Vaniqa Cream?

Vaniqa cream is the brand name ointment of the drug eflornithine. The medication is used to slow down facial hair growth. It works by retarding the enzymes that help hair to grow. The drug comes with an instruction sheet that should be read completely prior to starting the drug. The medication should only be used on the face and under the chin. Contact with eyes, mouth and nose should be avoided. If the medication should get into the eyes, wash the eyes with water and contact a physician immediately.

Usage Guidelines

Vaniqa cream can be used alone or in conjunction with hair removal procedures. If the cream is used alongside hair removal procedures, the cream should be applied to the skin at least five minutes after the hair removal treatment. After the medication dries, cosmetics and sunscreens can be applied. The skin should not be washed for at least four hours after the medicine has been applied so the full effect of the medication can take place.

Dosage Guidelines

The dosage instructions for Vaniqa cream will be different from patient to patient. Determining factors of dosage strength, frequency and treatment duration will be decided based on gender, health conditions and overall health. If two applications are required per day, it's advised that they be administered at least eight hours apart. If a dosage is missed, the cream can be applied when it's remembered. However, if it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Vaniqa cream are stinging skin and acne. Less common side effects include chapped lips, swollen lips, facial numbness, chronic acne, burning or bleeding skin, hair bumps, rash, reddening of the skin and tingling of the skin. All side effects should be reported to the prescribing physician.

Allergies

Patients who have allergies should advise their doctors of the allergies prior to being prescribed Vaniqa cream. Physicians will be particularly interested in learning if you have any allergies to medications, animals, foods, dyes and preservatives. Depending on the allergy type, using Vaniqa cream may not be advised.

Considerations

If hair growth becomes worse while using Vaniqa Cream the medication should be discontinued and a doctor consulted. If no improvement is seen after six months of treatment, the medication should be discontinued and a doctor consulted. The frequency of applications should be reduced if skin irritation occurs. If irritation continues after the applications have been reduced, the medication should be discontinued and a doctor consulted.

References

• MayoClinic.com on Eflornithine