Eflornithine

Class: Skin and Mucous Membrane Agents, Miscellaneous
VA Class: DE900
Chemical Name: 2-(Difluoromethyl)-dl-ornithine monohydrochloride monohydrate
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂F₂N₂O₂•HCl•H₂O
CAS Number: 67037-37-0
Brands: Vaniqa

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 21, 2021. Written by ASHP.

Introduction

Hair growth retardant.

Uses for Eflornithine

Reduction of Unwanted Facial Hair

Reduction of unwanted facial hair in women.

Eflornithine Dosage and Administration

General

• Marked improvement may occur after 8 weeks of therapy. Hair growth usually returns to baseline levels 8 weeks after discontinuing therapy.

Administration

Topical Administration

Apply to skin as a 13.9% cream.

Apply only to affected areas of the face and adjacent involved areas under the chin; not intended for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.

Apply a thin film and rub in thoroughly.

Do not wash treated areas for at least 4 hours after application.

Continue hair removal techniques (e.g., plucking, tweezing, cutting, shaving), as needed, throughout treatment. Do not apply cream for at least 5 minutes after hair removal.

May apply cosmetic products and sunscreens after cream has dried.

Dosage

Available as eflornithine hydrochloride; dosage expressed in terms of the salt.

Adults

Reduction of Unwanted Facial Hair

Topical

Apply a thin film twice daily at least 8 hours apart (or as directed by clinician).

If skin irritation or intolerance develops, reduce application frequency to once daily. If irritation continues, discontinue therapy.

Cautions for Eflornithine

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to eflornithine or any ingredient in the formulation.

Warnings/Precautions

Sensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Discontinue therapy if hypersensitivity reactions occur.

General Precautions

Dermatologic Effects

Possible transient stinging or burning if applied to abraded or broken skin.

Skin irritation may occur in susceptible patients or in those using higher than recommended dosages.

Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Category C.

Lactation

Not known whether eflornithine is distributed into milk. Caution if used in nursing women.

Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established in children <12 years of age.

Geriatric Use

N...