March 19, 2009 | Injection Treatments
3 minute read
Dysport® Could Soon Challenge Botox® in the U.S. Cosmetic Market
A new wrinkle-smoothing injectable may soon give Botox® some healthy competition. A recent study published in the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery highlights the safety and effectiveness of Reloxin, a botulinum-based treatment used to relax facial muscles and smooth frown lines.
While Reloxin has not yet received FDA approval, pharmaceutical company Medicis (which has since been acquired by Valeant) anticipates regulatory clearance soon. If approved, Reloxin—known globally as Dysport®—would become the first true rival to Botox® in the U.S. aesthetic market.
What Is Reloxin (Dysport®)?
Reloxin, marketed internationally as Dysport®, is a botulinum toxin type A injectable, much like Botox®. It temporarily blocks the nerve signals to targeted facial muscles, softening glabellar lines (frown lines) and other expression wrinkles.
Although it’s newer to the U.S., Dysport has been used overseas for more than 15 years, earning a reputation for fast-acting and long-lasting results.
Key Similarities to Botox:
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Both are derived from botulinum toxin type A
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Both are FDA-regulated neuromodulators (Botox in the U.S., Dysport abroad)
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Both treat moderate to severe dynamic wrinkles
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Side effects and efficacy are clinically comparable
One dermatologist involved in the clinical trials stated to Bloomberg News:
“The side effects are the same as Botox, and many of our patients liked it even better.”
What Did the Study Show?
The peer-reviewed study focused on Reloxin’s performance in reducing glabellar lines, the vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows often referred to as “11 lines.” Results indicated:
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Significant improvement in wrinkle severity
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Comparable safety profile to Botox
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High patient satisfaction
This aligns with what providers abroad have seen using Dysport for years.
How Reloxin May Compete in the U.S.
While Botox currently holds over 80% of the global neurotoxin market, analysts believe Reloxin/Dysport could capture a meaningful share of that market for a few key reasons:
1. Competitive Pricing
Early speculation suggests that Reloxin may be priced approximately 10–15% lower than Botox, making it attractive to both providers and patients.
2. Faster Onset
Many users report quicker visible results with Dysport—sometimes in as little as 24–48 hours, compared to 3–5 days with Botox.
3. Slightly Softer Appearance
While both products offer smooth, wrinkle-free results, Dysport may diffuse more easily into the surrounding area, making it ideal for larger treatment zones like the forehead.
What Does This Mean for Patients in Eugene?
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Eugene, we proudly offer Botox® and Dysport® (the international equivalent of Reloxin) for wrinkle treatment. If Reloxin receives FDA approval for aesthetic use, it could provide patients with another safe, effective, and potentially cost-effective wrinkle-relaxing option.
Whether you’re new to neuromodulators or considering switching from Botox, Dr. Lee B. Daniel and our expert aesthetic team are here to help you make the best choice for your facial structure, expression patterns, and treatment goals.
Wrinkle Relaxers: Botox vs. Dysport at a Glance
| Feature | Botox® | Dysport® (Reloxin) |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approved (U.S.) | ✔ Yes | ✘ Not yet (aesthetic use) |
| Time to Results | 3–5 days | 1–3 days |
| Duration of Effect | 3–4 months | 3–4 months |
| Injection Spread | Precise | Slightly broader |
| Cost | Standard rate | Expected to be 10–15% less |
Please note: Until FDA approval is confirmed, Dysport is not officially marketed as Reloxin in the U.S.
Stay Informed with the Latest in Aesthetic Advancements
As the industry evolves, we remain committed to offering the most effective, evidence-based treatments in the Eugene area. Dr. Daniel and our medical team continuously monitor FDA updates and clinical research to bring you safe and transformative cosmetic options.
📞 Call us at 541-687-8900 or request a consultation online to explore Botox®, Dysport®, and future options like Reloxin.