Injectable Neuromodulators
BOTOX, Xeomin, Dysport & Others
Neuromodulators are a category of facial cosmetic injections that work to alleviate moderate to severe wrinkles which occur due to movement of facial muscles. Specifically areas in the forehead, crows feet, smile lines and many other uses. BOTOX® is a wildly familiar neuromodulator. While it is one of the most well known, it is not the only one out there. Dysport and Xeomin (both from different companies) are similar. We use Xeomin for a few reasons and the following info is a look at why we do so.
XEOMIN® is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used to improve the look of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults for a short period of time (temporary).
Better or worse than Botox®?
Xeomin® is the first one that does not need to be refrigerated before use, which may simplify distribution. Xeomin® is also has no additives, just botulinum toxin type A. This may mean that there is less risk of developing antibodies against Xeomin® than other available neurotoxins. The body develops antibodies in response to a foreign invader and attacks. In theory, antibodies could prevent a neurotoxin from having its desired effects. The effects of Xeomin® occur within one week, and the results last from three to six months, making it comparable to Botox in terms of both onset and duration of action. Xeomin® should not be used interchangeably with other botulinum products.
What are the risks?
There is a risk that all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area where they were injected to other parts of the body, causing potentially life-threatening swallowing and breathing problems. This was predominantly seen in children treated with Botox off-label for cerebral palsy. These issues have not been reported among people who received botulinum products for cosmetic uses or to treat blepharospasm.
Other risks may include bleeding and bruising at the injection site and allergic reactions such as itching, swelling or shortness of breath. Your doctor should discuss all the potential risks of this procedure with you during your consultation.
When Xeomin® is used to treat cervical dystonia, side effects include neck pain, muscle weakness, injection site pain and musculoskeletal pain. When used to treat blepharospasm, the most common side effects of Xeomin® were eyelid sagging, dry eye, dry mouth, diarrhea, headache, visual impairment, shortness of breath (dyspnea), and upper respiratory infections.