When it comes to non-surgical cosmetic treatments, FDA-approved neurotoxins are among the most popular choices for reducing wrinkles and fine lines. These neurotoxins work by temporarily blocking nerve signals to muscles, preventing them from contracting and thus smoothing out the skin. Here’s a detailed look at the different FDA-approved neurotoxins, how they work, and their unique characteristics.
What Are Neurotoxins?
Neurotoxins are substances that alter nerve function and can temporarily weaken muscles. In aesthetic medicine, these agents are used to treat dynamic wrinkles—those caused by muscle movements such as frowning, squinting, or raising eyebrows. The most common neurotoxins approved by the FDA for cosmetic use include Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA), Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA), Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA), Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs), and Daxxify (daxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm).
Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA)
Overview:Â Botox is the most well-known and widely used neurotoxin. Approved by the FDA in 2002 for cosmetic use, it is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
Uses:Â Botox is used to treat moderate to severe frown lines, crow's feet, and forehead lines. It can also be used for medical conditions such as chronic migraines, excessive sweating, and muscle spasms.
Characteristics:
Onset:Â Results typically appear within 3-7 days.
Duration:Â Effects last about 3-4 months.
Unit Measurements:Â Botox units are unique to its formulation and cannot be directly compared to other neurotoxins.
Dysport (AbobotulinumtoxinA)
Overview: Dysport was approved by the FDA in 2009. It is also derived from Clostridium botulinum but has different protein structures compared to Botox.
Uses:Â Dysport is primarily used to treat moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). It is also used off-label for other areas.
Characteristics:
Onset:Â Results can appear within 2-3 days, making it faster than Botox.
Duration:Â Effects last about 3-4 months.
Unit Measurements:Â Dysport units differ from Botox units, with approximately 2.5-3 Dysport units equaling 1 Botox unit.
Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA)
Overview:Â Approved by the FDA in 2010, Xeomin is known as the "naked" neurotoxin because it contains no additives, just the pure botulinum toxin.
Uses:Â Xeomin is used to treat glabellar lines. The absence of complexing proteins may reduce the risk of developing antibodies against the toxin.
Characteristics:
Onset:Â Results appear within 3-4 days.
Duration:Â Effects last about 3-4 months.
Unit Measurements:Â Xeomin units are comparable to Botox units.
Jeuveau (PrabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs)
Overview:Â Jeuveau, approved by the FDA in 2019, is the newest neurotoxin on the market. It is specifically designed for cosmetic use.
Uses:Â Jeuveau is used to treat glabellar lines and is marketed as a more affordable option for aesthetic treatments.
Characteristics:
Onset:Â Results appear within 2-3 days.
Duration:Â Effects last about 3-4 months.
Unit Measurements:Â Jeuveau units are comparable to Botox units.
Daxxify (DaxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm)
Overview:Â Daxxify is a new entrant in the neurotoxin market, approved by the FDA in 2022. It is designed for long-lasting results with a unique peptide exchange technology.
Uses:Â Daxxify is used for treating glabellar lines and is noted for its potential extended duration of effect.
Characteristics:
Onset:Â Results typically appear within 1-2 days.
Duration:Â Effects can last up to 6-9 months, significantly longer than other neurotoxins.
Unit Measurements:Â Daxxify units are unique to its formulation and are not directly comparable to other neurotoxins.
Comparing Neurotoxins: Key Differences
Protein Complexes:Â Xeomin's lack of protein additives may reduce the risk of resistance.
Onset of Action:Â Dysport and Jeuveau tend to work slightly faster than Botox and Xeomin, while Daxxify has the quickest onset.
Unit Measurements:Â Conversion between units of different neurotoxins is necessary for appropriate dosing.
Duration of Effects:Â While most neurotoxins last around 3-4 months, Daxxify stands out with its extended duration of up to 6-9 months.
Conclusion
Choosing the right neurotoxin depends on individual goals, treatment areas, and response to the product. Consulting with a qualified healthcare provider can help determine the best option for achieving desired aesthetic results.
References
This comparison aims to provide clarity on the available neurotoxin treatments, helping you make informed decisions about your aesthetic care.
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