DL-alpha-Difluoromethylornithine Hydrochloride is an irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase.
Antineoplastic; antiprotozoal.
Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride 13.9%) cream is a unique topical cream
that slows anagen hair growth by irreversibly blocking the enzyme ornithine
decarboxylase. This enzyme produces polyamines in the hair matrix that are
partially responsible for the growth of the anagen hair. The cream was tested
only on the upper lip and chin region. The onset of action is usually within 8
weeks of starting the b.i.d. treatment, and the hair growth will return to baseline
within 8 weeks of discontinuing the drug. Patients need to be reminded that this
product does not remove hair but slows its growth in between whatever they use
for hair removal.
Ornidyl (Sanofi Aventis); Vaniqa (Skinmedica).
