Medicis Aesthetics has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its new "wrinkler relaxer," branded Dysport^TM. According to the manufacturer claims, clinical studies and patient reports have shown that Dysport may last up to eight months compared to Botox, which typically lasts four to six months.

This is particularly significant, as one of the primary complaints with Botox is its "staying power." Patients often experience "injection fatigue" because they typically require four injections of Botox per year - an added expense many people are finding difficult to justify in today's economy. As the manufacturer notes in a press release, with Dysport injections lasting longer, patients should only need half the amount of Botox treatments, reducing their costs. Moreover, Medicis Aesthetics claims that research has shown that Dysport "takes effect sooner, further saving patients time."

One of the first physicians to use Dysport is Joseph Eviatar, M.D., board certified Oculoplastic Surgeon at Chelsea Eye and Cosmetic Surgery Associates in New York City. "I am very excited about the introduction of Dysport as it possesses several unique properties that set it apart from Botox Cosmetic," says Dr. Eviatar. "Since Dysport does act quicker and last longer, it is more important than ever to have an experienced aesthetic physician administering the injection. The doctor should be very experienced about facial anatomy and dilution procedures. It is exciting to be able to offer patients an alternative to Botox Cosmetic, especially those patients for whom Botox does not last."

Dysport is a "next generation" acetylcholine release inhibitor and neuromuscular blocking agent indicated for the temporary improvement of the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar or frown lines between the brows. According to the manufacturer, it has been evaluated for safety and efficacy in clinical studies that included approximately 3,000 patients and 10,000 injections at more than 80 clinical study sites in the U.S. The FDA approval of Dysport also includes a second indication for the treatment of cervical dystonia in adults to reduce the severity of abnormal head position and neck pain.

Press Release: FDA Approves New Wrinkle Relaxer, Dysport  Medicis Aesthetics June 2009