Reloxin vs. Botox Injection- which lasts longer, costs less, works best

The potential FDA approval of  Reloxin was featured in the Skin Deep column of the New York Times, pointing out that Reloxin would directly compete with Botox in the market of injectables aimed at smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

Although not yet legal here in the U.S. (Reloxin is currently available under the name Dysport in the UK and South America), the debate has already started as to which product lasts longer, works faster and costs less.

While studies comparing the two drugs have been inconclusive in answering these questions, it seems only time will tell. The FDA announcement is slated for later this month, and as we’ve posted about previously, many are waiting this news anxiously, including Allergan, the makers of Botox.

When posed with the question- Reloxin vs. Botox, what’s the difference?, doctors on RealSelf have some helpful information to share:

“Reloxin has less of a protein load than Botox. Clinically this means that Reloxin will result in the formation of fewer antibodies against it. Antibodies are what our bodies use to detect and destroy foreign proteins aka antigens (the injected medications). Hence the assumption is that with fewer antibodies being formed the clinical effects of Reloxin should last longer than those of Botox. That being said, some clinical trials indicate that Botox has longer lasting results.” – Dr. Kamran Jafri

“Reloxin consists of the same basic ingredient as Botox which is Botlulinum Toxin A. This would be similar to asking what is the basic difference between Bayer Aspirin, Bufferin, Excedrin, Anacin, etc.? The answer is that they are all basically the same: Aspirin. In a recent study, Reloxin was shown to last of equal duration during multiple injections. However, in another, it was shown to spread farther than Botox when injected. This is both an advantage and disadvantage. In large muscles such as the forehead, you want the toxin to spread whereas in small muscles you do not want it to spread because it could affect neighboring muscles unfavorably.” – Dr. Otto Joseph Placik

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 5 million injections of Botox were given in 2008, and according to the reviews on RealSelf, 74% of those receiving a Botox injection thought it was worth it.

If Reloxin is approved, it will be interesting to watch how market share and customer opinions may shift between the two products. As of now, Reloxin has not been reviewed on RealSelf but we’re anxious for feedback. If you tested it out, please leave a Reloxin review here.

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