Dysport is so similar to Botox that it is referred to as Botox's twin or first cousin. This new wrinkle relaxer is approved to treat forehead wrinkles and frown lines in the U.S., and has been used to treat neurological disorders outside the United States for more than 15 years. Dysport is approved to treat wrinkles in 23 countries. It's been on the U.S. market since only April, 2009.
And there is certainly a market for it. People can't get enough of Botox. In 2008, Botox was the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed in the United States, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). There were approximately 2.5 million Botox procedures performed in 2008.
Dysport Vs. Botox
Like Botox Cosmetic, Dysport is an injectable form of botulinum toxin Type A. Your plastic surgery specialist will inject small amounts of the toxin into specific wrinkle-causing muscles, paralyzing them.
Exactly how the two wrinkle-relaxers differ is not fully understood. Initial reports suggest that Dysport may act quicker. Botox takes three to five days to work, while Dysport seems to work within one to two days. In some cases, wrinkles begin to fade as soon as 24 hours after receiving Dysport treatment. This rapid response could be the deciding factor for a woman or man looking to improve their appearance before a big social event or meeting.
What's more, the Botox alternative may last longer than its predecessor. Some studies have shown that Dysport injections may keep wrinkles at bay for six months to one year, as opposed to the approximate three month timeframe associated with Botox.
There may be some downsides to Dysport. Botox manufacturer Allergan points out that Dysport may be more likely to cause antibody formation. The body develops antibodies when it recognizes a foreign invader and attacks it. If you develop antibodies to Dysport, your body neutralizes the toxin, potentially preventing it from working.
Dysport Side Effects
Potential side effects of Dysport are similar to those associated with Botox treatment. They include local numbness, swelling, bruising or a burning sensation during injection. These side effects can be mitigated by placing ice on the injection site before and after the procedure.
Cost of Dysport
Another key factor is the cost of Dysport compared to Botox. Dysport is approximately 1/3 the cost of Botox; however, it is also 1/3 the strength. This means you will need about three times as many units of Dysport to get the same results as you would with one unit of Botox. As a result, the cost of Dysport treatment will likely end up being similar to Botox.
Medicis Pharmaceutical is the American drug company that has licensed Dysport from its French maker, Ipsen
Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation (NYSE: MRX)
7720 North Dobson Road Scottsdale AZ 85256
Phone: +1 (602) 808-8800
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| Medicis Pharmaceuticals is turning aggressive in its marketing with the wrinkle drug Dysport. |
