|
| Pronunciation |
|
 (ee
FLOR ni
theen) |
|
|
| Brand Names |
|
| Vaniqa™ |
|
|
| Therapeutic
Categories |
|
|
Antiprotozoal; Topical Skin Product |
|
|
| Reasons not to take this
medicine |
|
|
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 years of age.
If you have an allergy to eflornithine or any other part of this
medicine.
Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make
sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling
about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of
face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms
involved. |
|
|
| What is this medicine used
for? |
|
|
This medicine is used to decrease the growth of unwanted facial hair
in females.
It may take more than 6 weeks to see the full
effect. |
|
|
| How does it work? |
|
|
Eflornithine slows hair growth. |
|
|
| How is it best taken? |
|
|
Do not take this medicine by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth,
nose, and eyes (may burn).
Wash your hands before and after use.
Apply 5 minutes after removing hair.
Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently.
Do not wash the area for at least 4 hours.
Makeup can be used after the skin has
dried. |
|
|
| What do I do if I miss a
dose? |
|
|
Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
return to your regular schedule.
Do not take a double dose or extra doses. |
|
|
| What are the precautions when
taking this
medicine? |
|
|
Hair removal will still be needed with use.
Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix
well with other medicines.
Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting
pregnant.
Tell healthcare provider if you are
breast-feeding. |
|
|
| What are the common side effects
of this
medicine? |
|
|
Headache. Mild pain medicine may help.
Acne.
Hair bumps.
Skin irritation. |
|
|
| What should I monitor? |
|
|
Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the
same? |
|
|
| Reasons to call healthcare
provider
immediately |
|
|
If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center
immediately or dial 911.
Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest
tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of
face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Severe skin irritation.
Any rash.
No improvement in condition or feeling
worse. |
|
|
| How should I store this
medicine? |
|
|
Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. |
|
|
| General statements |
|
|
Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's
medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products,
supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare
provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine,
including over-the-counter, natural products, or
vitamins. |
|
|
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|
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