Both Dysport® and Botox® are forms of botulinum toxin type A, which are extracted for safe use in humans to relax muscles and decrease movement. Biologically and chemically, they’re almost identical, both containing the same 150 kilodalton active core. Both products inject and act similarly, although Dysport® may begin to act faster than Botox®.
Dysport® may be the new kid on the block in North America (available since Spring 2009), but it has been in direct competition with Botox® in Europe and elsewhere for many years already.
Dysport® is more diluted than Botox®, which changes the dosage levels that are administered. If you have previously had Botox® treatments and used to a certain number of units, that number will likely increase if you switch to Dysport®. The greater dilution doesn’t make Dysport® any less effective; the dosage is mainly a consideration for the injection specialist who administers the treatment.
Dysport® typically diffuses more, causing it to spread out over a broader area after it’s injected. This can be beneficial when treating a larger area such as wide forehead wrinkles and areas with thinner muscles, such as crow’s feet.
More diffusion means fewer injections are required to reach the desired results, and fewer injections mean less discomfort from the procedure. At the end of the day, I work with each patient to determine which injectable is best for him/her and will give the best outcome.
I believe patient education and thorough consultation are vital to successful cosmetic treatments. I’m always keen to ensure patients are fully informed and have all the answers before moving forward with their procedure.
Author: Dr. Anil Sharma