Botox Brand Names - Comparing Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau

Overview of Botox

Botox is the brand name for a neurotoxic protein called botulinum toxin type A. It is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botox injections contain a diluted purified form of the toxin.

When injected into muscles under the skin, Botox blocks nerve signals to that muscle. This reduces muscular contractions and allows the overlying skin to smooth out. It is most commonly used cosmetically to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Botox was first approved by the FDA in 1989 for two rare eye muscle disorders - strabismus and blepharospasm. In 2002, it was FDA approved for temporary improvement of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows called glabellar lines.

Today, Botox is also widely used "off-label" for other wrinkles on the forehead, crow's feet, and around the mouth. It is the number one nonsurgical cosmetic procedure performed.

Botox Brand Options

There are currently several brands of botulinum toxin type A injectables for reducing wrinkles and fine lines. They include:

• Botox Cosmetic
• Dysport
• Jeuveau
• Xeomin

The first botulinum toxin type A product approved was Botox Cosmetic made by Allergan. Later additional brands entered the market as the wrinkle-relaxing effects became popular.

Each brand has minor differences, but essentially provide comparable cosmetic results. However, the formulas are not considered interchangeable or identical.

Botox Cosmetic

Botox Cosmetic was the first version of injectable botulinum toxin type A approved by the FDA. The original patent was owned by Allergan, which was acquired by AbbVie in 2020.

Botox gained popularity after FDA approval for treating glabellar frown lines between the eyebrows in 2002. It continues to be the number one seller of neurotoxin wrinkle relaxers in the US.

Botox injections contain botulinum toxin type A, human albumin, and sodium chloride. The brand name has become synonymous with wrinkle reducers.

Dysport

Dysport is another brand of botulinum toxin type A made by Galderma Laboratories. It was initially approved in Europe in the 1990s and later introduced in the United States in 2009.

Like Botox, Dysport is indicated for temporary improvement of moderate to severe frown lines. But it also has approval for crows feet wrinkles.

The Dysport formula contains botulinum toxin type A, human albumin, and lactose. It tends to diffuse slightly more than Botox under the skin.

Jeuveau

Jeuveau is the latest neurotoxin wrinkle reducer to be FDA approved. It contains prabotulinumtoxinA, a proprietary botulinum toxin type A. Jeuveau was developed by Evolus, Inc.

Jeuveau was approved in 2019 for use in temporary improvement of moderate to severe frown lines. Like other brands, repeat injections are needed every 3-4 months.

The formula includes botulinum toxin type A, human serum albumin, sodium chloride, and sucrose.

Xeomin

Xeomin is a purified version of botulinum toxin type A manufactured by Merz Pharmaceuticals. It was initially introduced in Europe before gaining FDA approval in 2011.

Unlike Botox and Dysport, Xeomin does not contain accessory proteins like human albumin. It only includes the neurotoxin component.

Xeomin is indicated for treating glabellar frown lines, crows feet, and upper limb spasticity. Repeat injections every 3-4 months are typical.

Comparing Botox Brands

While all brands contain botulinum toxin type A and have similar effects, there are some key differences between formulations.

Onset and Duration

Most brands show visible results in 2-3 days, with peak effect in 7-10 days. However, Dysport and Xeomin tend to act slightly faster. Jeuveau is comparable to Botox for onset.

Duration of wrinkle-smoothing benefits lasts 3-4 months for all types typically. Slight variations can occur based on individual factors like metabolism.

Spread and Diffusion

The area of diffusion how far the drug spreads from the injection site can vary somewhat between brands.

Botox exhibits a moderate diffusion. Dysport spreads faster and wider so may require fewer injection points. Xeomin and Jeuveau show the least diffusion of brands.

Dosing Units

Each brand comes in different dosing units that are not interchangeable or equal. For example:

• 1 unit of Botox = 5 units of Dysport
• 1 unit of Jeuveau = 1 unit of Botox
• 1 unit of Xeomin = 1 unit of Botox

Your injector will determine the appropriate dose and injection sites based on the specific brand used.

Formulation and Inactive Ingredients

While the brands all contain purified botulinum toxin type A, the additional inactive ingredients vary.

Botox and Dysport include human albumin. Xeomin does not contain accessory proteins. Jeuveau contains sucrose instead of human albumin.

The preservative and inactive ingredients impact potency, diffusion, and potential side effects. Xeomin may have lower risk of antibody resistance for example.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau range in cost per unit injected. Location, provider fees, and number of units affect the total cost.

Since wrinkle reducers are considered cosmetic, they are typically not covered by insurance. But Dysport and Xeomin are FDA approved to treat certain medical conditions like cervical dystonia, which may allow insurance coverage.

Choosing Between Brands of Botox

When considering Botox brands, the key factors are safety, experience of the injector, cost, and individual product qualities.

Provider Training and Experience

The skill and expertise of the person performing your injections is most important for beautiful, natural looking results. Choose an experienced board-certified provider.

Many injectors tend to use and know Botox better since it was first. But competent providers can adeptly inject any of the wrinkle reducers.

Budget and Pricing

Pricing varies by region and provider. But Botox typically costs $300-$600 per treatment area while Dysport and Xeomin cost slightly less. Jeuveau is competitively priced with Botox.

Consider factors like cost per unit and number of units required along with any provider and facility fees.

Individual Product Differences

Subtle differences between brands in diffusion, onset, added proteins, and inactives may make one a better fit for your needs and preferences.

People prone to Xeomin resistance might opt for Botox or Dysport. Discuss options fully with an experienced injector.

Using Botox Safely and Effectively

When getting Botox or neurotoxin wrinkle reducers, proper administration technique and aftercare are vital for optimum results and safety.

• Choose an experienced, reputable provider.
• Undergo all necessary health screenings beforehand.
• Discuss goals and expected outcomes thoroughly with your provider.
• Follow all post-procedure instructions carefully.
• Wait the recommended 3-4 months between repeat injections.
• Report any concerning side effects to your provider immediately.

Adhering to label dosing guidelines and avoiding over-treatment maintains facial movements and natural-looking expressions.

Using wrinkle-reducing neurotoxins requires consistently maintaining appointments every 3-4 months. Follow-up with your aesthetics provider ensures properly tailored dosing and injection placement over time.

Risks and Side Effects

When performed correctly, today's formulations of botulinum toxin type A are very safe overall. However, some potential temporary side effects include:

• Mild pain, swelling, bruising at injection site
• Headache, flu-like symptoms
• Drooping eyelid or brow
• Crooked smile
• Resistance over time with repeated use

Using FDA approved brands from qualified licensed providers minimizes adverse reactions. Seek prompt medical attention if swallowing problems or signs of infection develop.

Combining Botox or other relaxers with dermal fillers, microneedling, chemical peels and other procedures may enhance rejuvenating results when appropriately spaced out.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.