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Botox now has competition
December 31, 2011
For the past 15 years, Botox has monopolized the ‘muscle relaxing’ injectable arena but two competitors, Dysport and Xeomin have recently entered the market. It is speculated that they will soon be approved for use in Canada, as both products have recently received FDA approval in the States. Dysport and Xeomin have been used in Europe for years to treat neuromuscular conditions but are newcomers to the cosmetic industry.
There are many similarities with the three products:
- They contain the same active ingredient which is derived from botulinum toxin type A. Basically, it is a type of protein.
- They are all used to relax the muscle they are injected into by blocking the signals the nerves send to that muscle.
- They need to be injected every 3 – 6 months, thus making their duration period quite similar.
- They all require a few days to take effect. This is called a gradual onset.
- All three products are excellent for the treatment of frown lines across the forehead and the two lines that form between the eyebrows.
- Mild side effects may be experienced by any one of them.
- Botox, Dysport and Zeomin are all safe and effective.
Although it is probably too soon to note all the differences in these products, there are a few that we know so far:
- Dysport has the shortest onset period of just 1 to 2 days. Botox is 3 to 4 days and Xeomin requires a week to see its full effect.
Botox and Dysport both require refrigeration, whereas Xeomin requires none. It is assumed that Xeomin's integrity is not be compromised when injected because of this attribute.
- Botox and Xeomin have the same sized molecules which makes their unit size comparable. Dysport contains smaller molecules so its unit size differs significantly. Basically, 50 units of Dysport equals 20 units of Botox. At this time, Dysport costs 10% less than the other two products. Botox and Xeomin are similar in price.
- Patients agree that there is less stinging when injected with Dysport than Botox.
- Xeomin can boast that it has absolutely no additives, therefore less risk of antibody formations.
- Xeomin has the least amount of protein around each active molecule which has sometimes caused it to be less stable and spread beyond the injection sight. This slight migration results in unwanted muscle relaxation.
Dysport and Xeomin are such new products to the cosmetic industry that their shortcomings as well as merits are still rather vague. When describing the differences, many say it is like comparing Coke versus Pepsi. Some will want to try Dysport because it is cheaper while others who are quite satisfied with the results they’re achieving with Botox will be unwilling to switch. The three products should not be used interchangeably and I stress that any of them should be injected by only a certified facial plastic surgeon.
Although we cannot offer Xeomin or Dysport at this time in our Yorkville clinic, we look forward to administering both of these quality products in the near future once approved by Health Canada.
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