Dysport: the new kid on the block

Many of you are familiar with or have had treatments with Botox for forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet. Botox has been approved for cosmetic indications since 2002. It is FDA approved for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines (forehead wrinkles) in adult men and women aged 18-65. It is also approved for axillary hyperhidrosis, or severe underarm sweating. Botox is botulinum toxin type A; a purified protein that blocks the signal instructing muscles to contract. For years, it has been the only such product on the market in the United States with a cosmetic indication. On April 29th, the FDA approved Dysport, the second botulinum toxin type A for use in the United States. Botox and Dysport have similar structures and work the same way. There are some reports that Dysport may start working more quickly than Botox – 3 to 4 days instead of 7 days. It also may last a month or so longer. Safety profiles for the two products are similar, and both products are very effective. Dermatologists and plastic surgeons have had much success treating crow’s feet, bunny lines on the nose, gummy smiles, a dimpled chin, bands in the neck, and facial asymmetry with both Botox and Dysport. We will likely see more competitors on the market in the next few years: Xeomin and PurTox are two similar products undergoing trials currently. Millions of patients have been injected worldwide with Botox and Dysport with successful outcomes. It is important to have the treatment performed by a board-certified physician with an understanding of facial anatomy, preferably a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. See us at SBD for Botox or Dysport today!