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Eflornithine Cream

Aka: Eflornithine Cream, Vaniqa

Indications
1. Hirsutism: Removal of unwanted facial hair in women
Pharmacology
1. Irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase
  1. Inhibits polyamine biosynthesis
  2. Decreases polyamine mediated cell division
2. Prior systemic use for African Trypanosomiasis
3. Peak systemic absorption <10 ng/ml
Adverse Effects: Local irritation
1. Stinging or burning
2. Tingling
Dosing (30 gram tube costs pharmacist $42)
1. Apply thin layer to affected area bid
2. Doses should be at least 8 hours apart
3. Avoid washing area for 4 hours after application
Efficacy
1. Modestly effective in reducing unwanted facial hair
2. Hair Growth recurs soon after stopping medication
References
1. (2000) Med Lett Drugs Ther 42(1089):96

Medication Costs
Vaniqa (on 2/9/2012 at DrugStore.com)
Vaniqa 13.9% Cream 30gm Tube	#1 for $94.99	($94.99/unit)
Vaniqa 13.9% Cream Twin Pack (contains Two 30gm Tubes)	#1 for $163.99	($163.99/unit)
FPNotebook does not benefit financially from showing this medication data or their pharmacy links. This information is provided only to help medical providers and their patients see relative costs. Insurance plans negotiate lower medication prices with suppliers. Prices shown here are out of pocket, non-negotiated rates. See Needy Meds for financial assistance information.

Vaniqa (C0939525)
Concepts	Organic Chemical (T109) , Pharmacologic Substance (T121)
MSH	D000518
English	vaniqa, Vaniqa, Women First Brand of Eflornithine Hydrochloride
Sources	Derived from the NIH UMLS (Unified Medical Language System)

Family Practice Notebook

Patients should address specific medical concerns with their physicians.

Although access to this page is not restricted, the information found here is intended for use by medical providers.

This page was written by Scott Moses, MD, last revised on 10/21/2007 and last published on 6/18/2013.

This is one of 5909 pages in the Family Practice Notebook