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Posted: 08/10/09

Botox finally has competition. The "new" injectable Dysport, a form of botulinum type A, is available after being cleared by the FDA. Dysport is the first product to challenge Botox in the United States. You should know that it has been competing with Botox in Europe for over 20 years; yet, Botox dominates with an 83% market share throughout the continent.
 

There is a learning curve with any new product, but particularly so with Dysport. Because Dysport is diluted more than Botox, clinicians not adept at determining how many units to inject may be confused with the new product. It is important to understand that they are not interchangeable as it takes more units of Dysport than Botox to treat an area. Unlike other offices, we will use whatever is needed of either product to guarantee you get the results you want.

Clinical studies of Dysport report that it "spreads more" during injection. This can be both a good and a bad thing. It is good in large areas like the forehead or the armpits to treat excessive sweating. It is bad for an inexperienced injector without a good understanding of the more complex musculature (around the eyes, between the eyebrows). In this case, it may spread into unwanted areas causing side effects like droopy eyebrows.

It is too early to tell which product lasts longer so we are closely evaluating Dysport to determine it's effectiveness. Based on the European experience and a recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, we suspect that Botox has the advantage. On the other hand, Dysport does take effect quicker. If you are short on time before a big event, we do have Dysport available.

Our patients know and love Botox. We are very pleased that they have designed Brilliant Distinctions, an aggressive new loyalty program designed to keep Botox patients happy. (This can only be a good thing.)

Needless to say, things are heating up in the wrinkle-relaxing world. We expect Dysport will not be the only product to challenge Botox. PurTox, by Mentor Corporation, is in the process of obtaining FDA clearance and should also be available very soon.
 

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