FDA Approves New Wrinkle Treatment
By Dr. Nathan Newman
Nearly 2.5 million Americans had Botox injections in 2008 for cosmetic reasons. The FDA has ended the longstanding monopoly of Botox (botulinum toxin type A) by approving the European made Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) for both cosmetic and therapeutic use in the United States. Dysport (formerly known as Reloxin) is made from the same active ingredient as Botox, Clostridium botulinim toxin type A.
Unlike fillers, these botulinum toxin products temporarily prevent the action of the muscles of expression that cause the lines, creases and wrinkles on the face. The most common areas for treatment include the frown lines, forehead wrinkles, the crow’s feet around the eyes, the rabbit lines on the nose, the creases on the upper lips, and the chin groove. Advanced techniques in use of Botox can help shape the eyebrows, the nose, the chin and even improve the turkey neck effect caused by the neck muscles.
Like Botox, Dysport is administered via an injection at the site of the muscle of expression that is targeted for treatment. Clinical trials comparing these products have shown that at a four to one ratio Dysport to Botox is necessary to achieve similar results. Dysport tends to work faster but may not last as long as Botox if not dosed correctly. The cost difference will be dependant on the unit ratio as Botox and Dysport units are not equal in strength and duration.
The cost of these products will not change much in the near future, as the companies have priced these products at competitive rates.
The most common side effects of Dysport are nose and throat irritation, headache, pain and skin reaction at the injection site, upper respiratory tract infection, eyelid swelling or drooping, sinus inflammation, and nausea.
Although, cosmetic surgeons in the United States now can give you an alternative to Botox, the patient should be cautioned to have Dysport injected by a doctor that is well versed in the use of and the differences in Dysport and Botox.
