Drug guide

Vaniqa

Vaniqa ( ee–FLOOR–nith–een) is used to slow down bodily substances called enzymes that help hair grow. The effect is slower facial hair growth. Vaniqa is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Topical Cream (U.S.)

Vaniqa is used to slow the growth of unwanted hair on the face in women, usually around the lips or under the chin. Vaniqa works by blocking a natural substance that is needed for hair to grow and is located in your hair follicle (the sac where each hair grows).

Vaniqa comes as a cream to apply to the skin. It is usually applied twice a day. To help you remember to apply Vaniqa cream, apply it around the same times every day, such as in the morning and in the evening. You should wait at least 8 hours between applications of Vaniqa. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Apply Vaniqa cream exactly as directed. Do not apply more or less of it or apply it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Vaniqa cream slows hair growth but does not prevent it. You should continue to use your current method of hair removal (e.g., shaving, plucking, cutting) or treatment while using Vaniqa cream. It may take four weeks or longer before you see the full benefit of Vaniqa cream. Do not stop applying Vaniqa without talking to your doctor. Stopping use of Vaniqa will cause hair to grow as it did before treatment. You should notice improvement (less time spent using your current method of hair removal) within 6 months of beginning treatment with Vaniqa. If no improvement is seen, your doctor will likely ask you to stop using Vaniqa. To use Vaniqa cream, follow these steps: Wash and dry the affected area(s).

Apply a thin layer to affected area(s) and rub in until absorbed. Apply Vaniqa cream only to affected skin areas.Do not allow the cream to get into your eyes, mouth, or vagina. You should wait at least 4 hours after applying Vaniqa cream before washing the area where it was applied. You should wait at least 5 minutes after using your current method of hair removal before applying Vaniqa. You may apply cosmetics or sunscreen after an application of Vaniqa cream has dried. You may feel temporary stinging or burning if you apply Vaniqa to broken skin.

Buy Vaniqa (U.S. only) or read more info about Vaniqa.

Brand names:
- Eflornithine
- Vaniqa