EFLORNITHINE HYDROCHLORIDE

EFLORNITHINE HYDROCHLORIDE (e-flor'ni-theen) Vaniqa Classifications: dermatologic agent; Therapeutic: dermatologic agent Pregnancy Category: C

Availability

13.9% cream

Action

Inhibits enzyme activity in the skin that is required for hair growth.

Therapeutic Effect

Results in retarding the rate of hair growth.

Uses

Reduction of unwanted facial hair in women.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to eflornithine or its components; pregnancy (category C); children <12 y.

Cautious Use

Bone marrow suppression; HIV; lactation.

Route & Dosage

Hair Removal Adult: Topical Apply thin layer to affected areas of the face and adjacent involved areas under the chin and rub in thoroughly b.i.d. at least 8 h apart

Administration

Topical

• Apply thin layer to affected skin areas on face and under chin and rub in thoroughly.
• Do not wash treated areas for at least 4 h after application.
• Store at 15°–30° C (59°–86° F).

Adverse Effects (≥1%)

Body as a Whole: Facial edema. CNS: Dizziness. GI: Dyspepsia, anorexia. Skin: Acne, pseudofolliculitis barbae, stinging, burning, pruritus, erythema, tingling, irritation, rash, alopecia, folliculitis, ingrown hair.

Interactions

No clinically significant interactions established.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: <1% absorbed through intact skin. Metabolism: Not metabolized. Elimination: Primarily in urine. Half-Life: 8 h.

Nursing Implications

Assessment & Drug Effects

• Monitor for and report skin irritation.
• Note: Drug slows growth of facial hair, but is not a depilatory.

Patient & Family Education

• Note: Effect of drug is usually not apparent for 4–8 wk.
• Reduce frequency of drug application to once daily if skin irritation occurs. If irritation continues, contact physician.

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Common adverse effects in italic, life-threatening effects underlined; generic names in bold; classifications in SMALL CAPS; Canadian drug name; Prototype drug