Eflornithine
Eflornithine is an irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, an enzyme involved in polyamine synthesis essential for cell proliferation. It is available as a topical cream for treating unwanted facial hair in women (hirsutism) and as an intravenous formulation for African sleeping sickness (trypanosomiasis). By blocking polyamine production, it reduces abnormal cell growth in treated areas.
Eflornithine is a topical treatment for hirsutism and an IV treatment for sleeping sickness that works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cell growth.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D11AX16
- RxNorm
- 569
- Generic
- Eflornithine
- Class
- atc-d11
- Brands
- Iwilfin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical, oral
- Forms
- cream, tablet, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Topical cream is used to reduce unwanted facial hair in women (hirsutism). Intravenous formulation is used to treat African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense.
Eflornithine irreversibly inhibits ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the rate-limiting enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis. Polyamines are essential for cell differentiation and proliferation, so blocking their production slows abnormal cell growth.
Topical formulation is for external use only on face and chin; avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. May cause skin irritation, redness, or acne. IV formulation requires monitoring for seizures and blood abnormalities. Pregnancy category C; consult healthcare provider before use.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy