Vaniqa

The seven biggest challenges to treating facial hirsutism

1

Women are reluctant to raise the topic with their doctor.


The social stigma attached to facial hirsutism in women causes a great deal of embarrassment for those who have it (Jackson 2007). Even when the condition has a severe effect on their quality of life, women may resist seeking medical attention for fear of not being taken seriously, or because they believe there is nothing that can be done to help. Likewise, doctors often struggle to address the problem verbally, even when it is part of a PCOS diagnosis.

2

Hirsutism is often dismissed as a purely cosmetic condition.


The fact is, in many cases, unwanted facial hair (UFH) is associated with a hormonal imbalance that might be caused by an underlying disease. Therefore, it must be the main focus of diagnostic measures to exclude all possible underlying conditions. Also, unwanted side effects of certain drugs must be considered. Only after all other medical conditions and other causes have been excluded can facial hirsutism symptoms solely be treated.

3

Hirsutism is thought to be an uncommon problem.


In reality, hirsutism affects between 5 and 15% of all women (Azziz 2003) across all ethnic backgrounds. Depending on the definition and the underlying data, estimates indicate that approximately 40% of women have some degree of unwanted facial hirsutism
(Blume 2007).

4

The impact of hirsutism on women’s lives is often underplayed.


While the level of bother caused by facial hirsutism varies among women, its impact on quality of life can be tremendous. Unwanted facial hair is a problem that has both physical and psychological effects, which can reduce a woman’s confidence and self-esteem
(Lipton 2006).

5

The problem may be worse than it appears.


Women may be distressed by a level of facial hair below that which many physicians would classify as clinical facial hirsutism. If a woman is bothered by this condition, there might be a treatment indication to prevent further negative impact on her quality of life. What’s more, women may use their standard hair removal methods (e.g. plucking, waxing) prior to their doctor appointment, effectively masking the problem.

6

Many women have unrealistic expectations with regard to treatments.


There is no quick fix or overnight cure for facial hirsutism. Treatments can take months and may not completely eliminate the problem. Since unwanted facial hair is seldom discussed in the media, among friends or with doctors, there is a lot of misinformation and false expectations among patients which can be an obstacle to compliance.

7

As with any treatment, patient compliance is critical to success.


Vaniqa can produce a significant reduction in hair growth within 8 weeks of starting therapy, but maintaining treatment is key to therapeutic success. Use should be discontinued if no beneficial effects are noticed within 4 months of commencing therapy. The benefits of Vaniqa only last while treatment continues and diminish once treatment has stopped, with the return of hair growth back to levels before treatment initiation (SPC 2010).

Facial hirsutism: A common condition worth treating seriously

Depending on the definition and the underlying data, estimates indicate that approximately 40% of women have some degree of unwanted facial hair. Read More >>

Vaniqa: Easily incorporated into daily life

Vaniqa should be used twice daily, on a continual basis (SPC 2010). If no beneficial effects are noticed within 4 months, discontinue use. Of course, achieving beneficial effects starts with compliance. Read More >>

Vaniqa: Easily incorporated into daily life

Vaniqa: Efficacy

81% of women using Vaniqa show clinical improvement in facial hirsutism after 1 year (Schrode 2000b).
Read more >>

Vaniqa: Mode of action

Vaniqa: Mode of action

Vaniqa is the only topical prescription treatment that slows the growth of facial hair. Topical eflornithine works on the root to inhibit hair growth.
Read more >>

Vaniqa: Safety and tolerance

Vaniqa is well tolerated
(Schrode 2000b) and can be used with common hair removal methods, laser therapy and oral contraceptives (Shapiro 2005, Hamzavi 2007,
SPC 2010).
Read more >>

Links: Here are some useful links to Vaniqa information

• Prescribing Information
• Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)
• Summary of Product Characteristics
  (SPC)
• European Public Assessment Report
  (EPAR)


© 2010-2011 Almirall
Reference Index | Legal Notices | Prescribing Information | Contact us
Date of preparation: February 2011 / Code: UKEFL0485

This site contains information for
UK healthcare professionals.


I am a UK healthcare professional, please direct
me to the Vaniqa Healthcare Professional Site.
No Yes