Pharm

Eflornithine Cream

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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 [PubMed]