The name “Botox®” is a widely recognized name and has commonly been used to refer to all injectable treatments. To clarify this misconception, Botox® and Dysport™ alike are a natural, purified protein that relax the muscles reducing facial movement and wrinkles, not filling or plumping them. The active ingredient is botulinum toxin derived from the bacterium in a similar way that penicillin is derived from mold. Botox® has been used for years to “relax” expression lines made in the forehead, around the eyes and glabella, whereas Dysport™ has recently been FDA approved for the same.

BEFORE AFTER

BRIEF HISTORY: In 1988, drug maker Allergan acquired the rights to distribute ophthalmologists’ Dr. Alan B. Scott’s batch of botulinum toxin type A (or Oculinum, as it was then known) and a year later, the FDA approved it for the treatment of both strabismus and blepharospasm (spasms of the eyelid muscle). Shortly thereafter, Allergan acquired Scott’s company and changed the drug’s name to the compact, catchy “Botox.”

Ever since, Botox® has come a long way with FDA approval for Cosmetic purposes in 2002 and for Hyperhydrosis (excessive sweating) in 2004. It has appeared in magazines, talked about in shows, used by Hollywood stars, even your neighbor down the street! It is the #1 Non
Surgical Procedure in the country. Men and women all over the world have committed to using this anti-aging treatment every 4-6 months.

COMPARISON: initial reports suggest Dysport™ may act quicker. Botox® takes approximately 3 – 7 days to take effect, while Dysport™ seems to work within one or two days. In some cases, wrinkles begin to fade as soon as 24 hours after receiving a Dysport™ treatment. This rapid response could be the deciding factor for a patient looking to improve their appearance before a social event.

Some studies also show that Dysport™ may last longer than the 3 – 6 months allotted for the Botox® treatment. Allergan, Botox®‘s manufacturer points out that Dysport™ may be more likely to cause antibody formation, potentially preventing the product from working.

As far as cost, Dysport™ is about 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 you would with one unit of Botox®. As a result, the cost of a treatment with either Botox® or Dysport™ may be similar.

Side effects are similar with either product and may involve bruising in the injection site(s) and/or slight swelling that dissipate within a few hours or a couple of days. Eyelid drooping can occur, although if treatment is done by an experienced physician, like Dr. Albert, this is rare.

The products are so similar, It really comes down to personal preference. It’s like comparing Coke with Pepsi… which one will you choose?

Tags: allergan, Botox, botox vs. dysport, cosmetic, Dysport, injectable, medicis, Non-Surgical