Generic
Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate is a cream used for the reduction of unwanted facial hair (facial hirsutism) in women. It slows down hair growth.
Description
Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate is a topical cream indicated for the reduction of unwanted facial hair in women. It irreversibly binds to ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), inhibiting the anagen phase of hair production. Apply twice daily at least 8 hours apart to affected areas (face and under chin). Improvement may be noticed within 8 weeks of starting treatment. Continued treatment is necessary to maintain beneficial effects. Side effects include acne, itching, skin redness, hair loss, burning, dry skin, rash and folliculitis. Contraindicated in hypersensitivity. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Indications
- Reduction of unwanted facial hair (facial hirsutism) in women
Therapeutic class
Hair Growth Inhibitor
Pharmacological class
Ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor
Pharmacology
Eflornithine irreversibly binds to ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), inhibiting the anagen phase of hair production. ODC catalyzes biosynthesis of intracellular polyamines required for cell division and differentiation.
Mechanism of action
Eflornithine irreversibly binds to ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), inhibiting the anagen phase of hair production, thereby slowing hair growth.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical): Apply twice daily, at least 8 hours apart to affected areas.
Child Dose (>12 years): Apply twice daily, at least 8 hours apart to affected areas.
Administration
For external use only. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and rub in thoroughly. Wash hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes, nose or mouth. Do not cleanse the treated area within 4 hours of application. Do not apply within 5 minutes of waxing or shaving.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate, apply it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Acne
- Itching
- Hair loss
- Burning sensation
- Dry skin
- Rash
- Paresthesia
- Irritation
- Folliculitis
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Erythema
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, nose or mouth.
- If skin irritation develops, reduce frequency to once daily temporarily. If irritation continues, discontinue treatment and consult doctor.
- Do not apply within 5 minutes of waxing or shaving (may increase stinging/burning).
- Do not cleanse treated area within 4 hours of application.
- Wait at least 5 minutes after application before applying makeup or sunscreen.
- Excessive hair growth may result from serious underlying disorders (e.g., PCOS, androgen-secreting neoplasm).
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to eflornithine or any ingredient
Drug interactions
No interaction studies have been performed.
Food interactions
No interaction found/established.
Use in pregnancy
Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate may be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects. Doctor will weigh benefits and risks.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby. However, data on use during lactation is limited.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy in children aged 0 to 18 years have not been established.
Geriatric use
(>65 years) No dosage adjustment is necessary.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Caution required in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic impairment: Safety not established. Caution required.
Overdose effects
Overdose is highly unlikely due to minimal cutaneous penetration. Intravenous therapeutic doses (400 mg/kg/day) may cause: hair loss, facial swelling, seizures, hearing impairment, GI disturbance, loss of appetite, headache, weakness, dizziness, anemia, thrombocytopenia and leucopenia.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Eflornithine Hydrochloride Monohydrate