Both Dysport® and BOTOX® are botulinum toxin A products that relax overactive muscles to improve facial aesthetics. But just because these products share a category does not mean they are equivalent. In fact, it’s important to note that they are not equivalent and the FDA does not consider them to be so. To be considered a generic drug that is the bioequivalent of a name brand drug, the generic product and name brand must share a dose and therapeutic effect by 90%. This means that doctors do not have to adjust dose or treatment when switching between the brand name drug and the generic version. This is not the case with Dysport and BOTOX.
The relative strength of BOTOX to Dysport is thought to be about 2 to 4, so they cannot be used in similar doses. Further, Dysport diffuses more widely than BOTOX, meaning that treating one section of the face with Dysport will have a wider effect than treating the same portion with BOTOX. This is not necessarily better or worse – what it means is that BOTOX and Dysport have different applications. We don’t have meaningful evidence that Dysport lasts longer than BOTOX. However, Dysport seems to kick in faster and some people really like this difference. These two products share important similarities, but we must be cautious in differentiating them as well.
Is Dysport Better than BOTOX?
It’s too soon to tell because Dysport only just became available in the United States in mid-2009. So far Dysport and BOTOX seem to be comparable products with important differences outlined above, and Dysport has not demonstrated any clear advantages. We already know BOTOX to be an extremely beneficial product that is here to stay, and we also know that Medicis (the maker of Dysport, Restylane, and Perlane) has consistently created effective products. This said, BOTOX is still the market leader and Dysport will need to prove itself and withstand the test of time.
Some people are holding their breath in hopes that BOTOX and Dysport prices will compete until prices drop considerably. Although there is some competition, we advise you to go ahead and take a deep breath and not expect a drastic change. Introducing a new drug or product to the market is a costly endeavor that requires extensive research, production, and testing. Add to this the cost of an experienced doctor who specializes in these procedures, and we see that cosmetic procedures from the better providers are never going to be significantly less expensive. The advanced and technical nature of the medical field means that good medicine will always come at a premium, if administered safely and as recommended. Since Dysport and BOTOX are not bioequivalent products, the competition between these products is even less direct than some imagine. If you have been waiting for the price of BOTOX to drop sharply, you may be disappointed. BOTOX is still worth as much as it was before, and Medicis still needs to recover the cost of bringing Dysport to the market. Additionally, it is rumored that the price of BOTOX is scheduled to go up in 2010.
Dysport is turning out to be a great product, just as we expected. Doctors are now gaining experience with Dysport and perfecting its use. So…
Should I Be Treated with BOTOX Or Dysport?
Your treatment will depend on the results of your private consultation. Choose a doctor with extensive experience in treating the face with botulinum toxin A products for the best results. Very subtle differences in treatment make the difference between good and extraordinary results, and experience guides doctors in making treatment decisions. While any new product has the disadvantage of a short track record, a doctor with a demonstrable high skill level will know how to best apply the new product and when it’s preferable to use the leading brand.
Dr. Steinsapir trained with the inventor of BOTOX and has performed thousands of BOTOX treatments for over two decades. In this time he has helped BOTOX recipients achieve remarkable results and has pioneered the patent pending MicrodropletTM BOTOX treatment. As a professional considered among the top BOTOX practitioners, he can help you get the best results from a traditional BOTOX treatment or the new Dysport treatment. Contact us today for an individualized consultation to find out the most appropriate treatment for your unique concerns.
