Dysport vs Botox · Dermatologist · Cosmetic, Laser Dermatology NYC

Dysport vs Botox

Dysport and Botox are two common treatments most known for their use in wrinkle reduction. Botox was the first to hit the U.S. markets after approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002. In 2009, Dysport was approved by the FDA and became a major competitor. Though Botox is still more widely known and more popular, there isn’t much reason behind this. They’re both viable options for treating crow’s feet, frown lines, and other wrinkles.

In general, both medications are effective, but Botox has more name recognition because it was first, it’s been around longer, and its company has marketed the product more effectively. If you are considering having either Dysport or Botox injections, it’s best to discuss the pros and cons of each with your dermatologist in New York City. But take a quick look at the similarities and the differences between Dysport and Botox injections.

What Are Dysport and Botox?

Dysport is an injectable derived from botulinum toxin type A, which comes from the botulism-causing bacteria. Although Dysport is derived from a toxin, it’s completely safe as administered by your dermatologist. It’s been modified specifically for medical use. Dysport is injected into wrinkle-causing or spastic muscles, causing them to relax. Dysport can reduce the visual appearance of wrinkles.

Similar to Dysport, Botox is an injectable medication that’s also derived from the botulism family, though the chemical structure of Botox is slightly different than Dysport. Botox is administered similarly to Dysport: injected directly into the muscle, causing wrinkles. Botox is a safe option when administered by a Manhattan dermatologist, and it continues to have a great safety record. In 2011, a review of 6,200 injections found only two cases with side effects of bruising and eyelid drooping.

Medical Uses

While both treatments are well known for their cosmetic use in reducing wrinkles, both have similar medical applications. Both Dysport and Botox have been successful in treating:

• Neck spasms
• Headaches
• Muscle spasms
• Lazy eye
• Sweating issues
• Overactive bladder

Similarities and Differences

Both Dysport and Botox type A toxins from the botulinum family. They are very similar in molecular structure. Both have heavy chains in their structure that bind cell membranes and light chains that inhibit the release of acetylcholine to the cell membrane. Essentially, these two medications interfere with interactions between the nerves and your brain, causing relaxation of the affected wrinkle-causing muscle.

Dysport and Botox are considered to be similar in price. Though Dysport treatments may run slightly lower in price, you typically need more frequent Dysport treatments, as compared to Botox, to achieve the same effect. Therefore, the pricing ends up working out about the same for both.

While Dysport and Botox are derived from the same family, they are different in molecule shape. This molecule shape affects how they diffuse and how dosage is calculated. This has made the comparison of Dysport and Botox difficult because dosages are not universal. The major difference is that Dysport works on smaller proteins and is better for larger areas but can spread in the skin more easily.

Advantages of Each

Botox has been more widely used, and so many NYC dermatologists have a better understanding and predictability with dosages and results. Since Botox works with a larger protein, it stays in your muscle and is thought to spread less in the skin. While this means better targeting with Botox, it could be a disadvantage for treating larger areas because you’ll have more injection sites.

Dysport has proven to have a faster onset than Botox, so it’s often used when patients want faster results. You’ll often notice results with Dysport one to two days after treatment, while you won’t see results from Botox until three or four days later. Also, because Botox is more commonly used, you may develop a resistance to Botox over time. Dysport can be an excellent alternative for those who have developed resistance to Botox.

Effectiveness and Dosages

In 2011, a doctor did a test where he treated 90 patients with half Dysport and half Botox on either side of their faces. It was a blind study where neither the patients nor the researchers knew which side was receiving which treatment. Two-thirds of his patients reported a preference for Dysport. However, this study was funded by the makers of Dysport, which caused some concern. Additionally, there were major differences in the dosage rates of Dysport in comparison to Botox. In that same study, dosages of Dysport were 3:1 compared to Botox, meaning they used a stronger dose of Dysport than Botox.

Comparing Dysport against Botox is difficult because of the dosage issue. Dosages are variables decided by your dermatologist. They ultimately determine the effectiveness and results of your treatment. Both Dysport and Botox are effective, but different dosages make it difficult to pinpoint exactly which is more effective.

Side Effects and Risks

While both Dysport and Botox have excellent safety records, there are some side effects and potential complications with both. In rare cases, individuals have an allergic reaction to the injections. You should not receive Dysport or Botox injections if you are allergic to the botulinum toxin or cow’s milk. You should also not receive injections while you have an infection or muscle weakness.

While you should always disclose to your NY dermatologist all your medical conditions, the medicines you’re currently taking, and all the supplements and vitamins you take. There are some medical conditions that raise extra concerns. Medical conditions to disclose to your dermatologist include:

• Lou Gehrig’s disease
• Lambert-Eaton syndrome
• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Epilepsy
• Myasthenia gravis
• Heart disease
• Bleeding issues
• Diabetes
• Upcoming surgeries

In addition to these conditions that may cause your dermatologist to use extra caution with Dysport and Botox, there are a number of uncommon but potentially life-threatening side effects you could experience after injections. If you experience any of the following side effects, seek medical attention immediately:

• Trouble breathing
• Trouble talking or swallowing
• Blurred vision
• A hoarse voice
• Sudden muscle weakness
• Loss of bladder control
• Flu-like symptoms
• Nausea
• An uneven heart rhythm
• A rash or severe itching at the injection site
• Chest pain
• Drooping eyelids or crusting from eyelids

As rare as they are, these side effects should be taken seriously and reported to your New York City dermatologist. Overall, both Dysport and Botox have great safety records, and you shouldn’t hesitate to get treated if you and your dermatologist agree these medications can help you achieve your desired goals.

Important Reminder: This information is only intended to provide guidance, not definitive medical advice. Please consult dermatologist NYC about your specific condition. Only a trained, experienced board certified dermatology doctor or pediatric dermatologist could determine an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.