What is Vaniqa used for?
Women use Vaniqa to reduce the growth of excessive hair on their faces.
How it works:
Vaniqa slows down the growth of hair through its effect on an enzyme involved in the
production of hair. It does not remove hair. It is not a depilatory cream so you may need to
continue removing hair, for example by shaving or plucking. Improvement may be seen as
early as 2 months after start up of treatment. If you do not see any benefit after using it for
4 months contact your doctor. If you stop using it your original hair growth may return in
2 months.
BEFORE YOU USE Vaniqa:
When NOT to use Vaniqa:
Do not use it if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to eflornithine or to any of the other
ingredients. Also, tell your doctor of any other medical problems (especially related to your
kidneys or liver) before using this product. If you are unsure whether or not to use this
medicine contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
What else should I know?
Excessive growth of hair may be a result of underlying diseases or certain medications.
Contact your doctor if you have any questions.
Wait at least 5 minutes after shaving or plucking before using this cream. It may sting or burn
if you put this medicine on cut or irritated skin.
Do not get it in your eyes or inside your nose or mouth. If this happens accidentally, rinse
thoroughly with water.
Using Vaniqa with other medicines:
Speak to your doctor if you need to use other medicines on the areas of skin where you are
using it.
Breast-feeding
You should not use Vaniqa while breast-feeding.
Pregnancy
Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant, or trying to become pregnant.
HOW TO USE Vaniqa:
Always use Vaniqa exactly as your doctor has instructed you. You should check with your
doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
1. If you have just shaved or used any other hair removal method, wait at least 5 minutes
before using Vaniqa.
2. Clean and dry the areas of the skin where you will be using it.
3. Apply a thin layer of cream and rub it in thoroughly.
4. If possible, do not wash these areas of skin for 4 hours after putting it on.
5. Wash your hands after applying it.
6. Wait at least 5 minutes before using make-up or sunscreen on the same areas.
7. Use it twice a day, at least 8 hours apart.
8. Vaniqa can cause irritation (stinging, burning). If irritation persists contact your doctor.
How long should I use Vaniqa?
It may take up to 2 months before you see results. Continually using it may lead to further
improvement. You will need to keep using it to keep the benefit. If you do not see any benefit
after using it for 4 months contact your doctor.
Missed an application?
Apply straight away, but wait at least 8 hours before using it again.
Too much cream?
If you put too much cream on your skin, it probably will not harm you.
Accidentally swallow some cream?
If you or anyone else accidentally swallow Vaniqa, contact your doctor.
Like all other medicines, Vaniqa can have side effects. The most frequently reported side
effect was acne (7-14%). Other side effects commonly (> 1%) reported were skin problems
such as skin reactions from ingrowing hair, hair loss, a burning, stinging or tingling feeling,
dry skin, itching, redness or rash.
Also reported, but uncommonly (< 1%), were ingrowing hairs, facial swelling, skin bleeding,
cold sores, dry, cracked or numb lips, pale areas of the skin and sore or tight skin.
If you notice these or any other side effects, or if you are not sure about the effect of Vaniqa,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
STORING Vaniqa
Make sure the cap of the tube is tightly closed after each use.
Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
Do not store at a temperature above 25°C (77°F).
Do not use the cream after its expiry date. There is an expiry date on the box and the bottom
of the tube of Vaniqa.