Vaniqa Facial Hair Inhibitor Cream Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Vaniqa prescribed?
Vaniqa is an enzyme inhibitor used topically to slow the growth of unwanted facial hair in women.
Why is Vaniqa sometimes called eflornithine HCL?
Eflornithine HCL is the generic name for Vaniqa. The generic name represents the medications nonproprietary or chemical name, whereas, the brand name is the name a pharmaceutical give to a medication for marketing purposes.
Vaniqa interferes with an enzyme found in the hair follicle of the skin needed for hair growth. This results in slower hair growth and improved appearance where Vaniqa is applied.
Vaniqa does not permanently remove hair or “cure” unwanted facial hair with just one application. However over time the medication will slow and eventually stop the unwanted hair from growing. Your treatment program should include continuation of any hair removal technique you are currently using. Vaniqa will help you manage your condition and improve your appearance.
How do you apply Vaniqa cream?
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your physician. Common prescribed dosing for Vaniqa involves applying a thin layer of Vaniqa to affected areas of the face and adjacent involved areas under the chin and rub in thoroughly. Do not wash treated area for at least 4 hours. Use twice daily at least 8 hours apart or as directed by a physician. Individuals should continue to use hair removal techniques as needed in conjunction with Vaniqa (Vaniqa should be applied at least 5 minutes after hair removal). Cosmetics or sunscreens may be applied over treated areas after cream has dried.
What if I miss a dose of Vaniqa?
If you miss a dose of Vaniqa, apply the medication as soon as remembered; do not use the medication if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
What happens if I use too much Vaniqa?
Using too much Vaniqa cream could cause severe skin reactions. If too much Vaniqa cream is applied, simply wash away the extra cream with mild soap and water. When any skin reaction has settled, you may then continue with your treatment. If the Vaniqa cream is accidentally swallowed, nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, and fever could occur. If you or someone else accidentally swallows Vaniqa cream, contact your local physician or call 911.
Can I get Vaniqa over the counter?
No, Vaniqa is a prescription medication and should only be taken when prescribed by a licensed physician. Regulations do not permit Vaniqa to be taken without a prescription. Secondary to the advent of the internet individuals can now order lifestyle medications, such as, Vaniqa online. Individuals are ask to complete a medical questionnaire which is subsequently reviewed by a physician, once approved your Vaniqa order will be shipped discreetly and promptly to your home or offices.
What are the most common side effects associated with Vaniqa?
Reported side effects were generally mild and include include stinging, burning, redness, tingling, rash of the skin; or hair bumps (folliculitis). These symptoms generally occur early in the treatment and subside in a relatively short period of time with continued use of Renova. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your physician. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your physician, nurse, or pharmacist.
Are there any drug interactions associated with the use of Vaniqa?
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your physician may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Discuss with your physician and/or pharmacist if you are using any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medications).
Who should not take Vaniqa?
Individuals should not exceed the recommended dose of Vaniqa or take Vaniqa for longer than prescribed without first consulting with your physician. Keep all physician and laboratory appointments while you are using Vaniqa. Inform your physician of your complete medical history especially if you have a history of any skin disorders e.g. eczema, skin cancer, psoriasis, etc. Individuals should not use Vaniqa is contraindicated in individuals with known allergies or hypersensitivity to the medication or any of the components. The medication should be discontinued if hypersensitivity to any of Vaniqa's ingredients is noted. If you are pregnant, intend to become pregnant or breastfeeding do not use this medication. If you become pregnant you should contact your physician immediately. Vaniqa should not be prescribed to children.
Should Vaniqa be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, intend to become pregnant or breastfeeding do not use this medication. If you become pregnant you should contact your physician immediately. Clinical testing has not been done to establish whether the medication is present in the breast milk.
How long will it take before I begin to notice Vaniqa's positive effects?
Do not be discouraged if you see no immediate improvement. Improvement may be seen as early as 4 to 8 weeks of treatment. Improvement may take longer in some individuals. If no improvement is seen after 6 months of use, discontinue use.
May I apply my normal cosmetics while using Vaniqa?
Women may continue to use their daily moisturizer, sunscreens, skin rejuvenation medications, cosmetics etc. in conjunction with Vaniqa. Individuals should wait approximately five minutes following the application of Vaniqa, and then apply their products in a normal fashion. (please consult your dermatologist prior to applying other prescription medications such as cortisone, etc.)
Does the use of Vaniqa cause an increase sensitivity to sunlight?
Unlike Renova or Retin-A it is important to note that Vaniqa did not show to increase sensitivity to the sun in clinical studies.
How should Vaniqa be stored?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
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Store away from heat and direct light.
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Keep the medicine from freezing. Do not refrigerate.
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Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
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