subject: How does Eflornithine Cream (Generic Vaniqa) work? [print this page] How does Eflornithine Cream (Generic Vaniqa) work?
How does Vaniqa / Eflornithine work?
An enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase, that is found in hair follicles is blocked when eflornithine goes to work. Ornithine decarboxylase is necessary for the growth of hair and the blocking effect of Vaniqa thus stops hair growth. After due analysis of this effect, the FDA granted approval for prescription use of Vaniqa as a treatment for facial hirsutism. If you seek more information about Vaniqa, you can read the many FAQ available online. There are also several news items from where you can get lot of details.
Side Effects of Vaniqa
Clinical trials and actual usage have shown that there are certain common Vaniqa side effects that are experienced by most patients. These include acne, skin irritation, skin reddening, rashes, ingrown hair, facial flushing, skin blistering, cold sores, and dry or numb limps. Most of these Vaniqa side effects are not too serious or dangerous. However, certain side effects such as dry skin, abnormal hair growth, extreme skin pigmentation, itchy dermatitis, and cysts on the skin could have severe symptoms.
Vaniqa is generally prescribed only to adult women and it should not be used by children. Women too should properly follow the application and dosage instructions from their doctor as an overdose could result in severe side effects. The effect of eflornithine has not been checked during pregnancy and so should not be used by women who are pregnant.
Guidelines before taking Vaniqa
Vaniqa is also available in generic form and you should first ensure that the version you are using is an approved one. Eflornithine is only meant to be used on the face or under the chin and should not be applied to any other parts of the body. It has been approved for use only in women and men or girls under the age of 12 years should not apply this cream. Vaniqa should not be applied to broken or damaged skin. In particular, it should be used immediately following the use of any hair removal applications.
What are the common dosages of Vaniqa?
Vaniqa is a cream and so there is no common dosage of this medication. However, branded Vaniqa as well as most generic versions contain 13.9% of the main ingredient eflornithine.
Difference between Brand Vaniqa and Generic Eflornithine
The main differences between brand Vaniqa and generic eflornithine lie in the following areas: manufacturers, prices, colour of the cream, and packaging. Other than these, the overall effect and application for all versions remain the same.
