What is Dysport?

Dysport (abobotulinum toxin A) is a neuromodulator like Botox (onabotulinum toxin A) that received FDA clearance in 2009 and is becoming a popular alternative to Botox. The active component of the two products is identical and both give similar results for improvement of wrinkles caused by muscle contraction such as those between the brows. The units of the two products are not equivalent. Most doctors equate 2.5 to 3 units of Dysport to 1 unit of Botox; so more units of Dysport are required to produce the same effect as Botox. Hence the per unit cost of Dysport is significantly less. Clinically, Dysport diffuses more than Botox, which may lead to potential adverse effects depending on where it is injected. Speak with your doctor about which product is best for you.

Distant Spread of Toxin Effect: Postmarketing reports indicate that the effects of Dysport and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. These may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, blurred vision, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening, and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity, but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, particularly in those patients who have underlying conditions that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses, including spasticity in children and adults, and in approved indications, cases of spread of effect have been reported at doses comparable to those used to treat cervical dystonia and at lower doses.