Vaniqa(EFLORNITHINE - TOPICAL)
USES:
This medication is used to slow down the growth of unwanted
facial hair in women. It interferes with an enzyme needed in the skin
for hair growth but does not remove hair. This drug is not for use
in children under the age of 12 years.
HOW TO USE:
Apply a thin layer of this medication, at least 5 minutes after
hair removal (e.g., plucking, shaving), to the affected areas of
the face and chin. It is usually applied twice daily at least 8
hours apart, or as directed by your doctor. Do not wash the treated
area for at least 4 hours. Cosmetics or sunscreens may be applied
over the treated areas after the medication has dried. Continue
to use hair removal techniques (e.g., shaving, plucking) while using
this medication. Avoid getting this drug in your eyes or inside
your nose or mouth. If this drug gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly
with water and contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Rash, burning, stinging, tingling, or redness of the skin, or "hair
bumps" (folliculitis) may occur. If these effects persist or
worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you
develop any of these serious side effects: bleeding skin, swelling
of the face or lips. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies,
broken skin, sores on the face. This medication should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits
with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
medication you may use, especially of: other facial or skin products.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful
if swallowed. Symptoms following ingestion may include hair loss,
facial swelling, seizures, hearing loss, upset stomach, loss of appetite,
headache, weakness, and dizziness.
NOTES:
Do not share this medication with others.
MISSED DOSE:
If you miss or forget a dose, do not make it up. Instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE:
Store at controlled room temperature (77 degrees F or 25
degrees C). Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees
C) is permitted. Do not freeze.
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