Can You Build a Resistance to Botox?

It is possible to develop a resistance to Botox,usually through your body making antibodies to the Botox. Also be aware that the expertise of the injector and the number of units injected are also variables that may account for decreased response. However, if you have developed a resistance, then Dysport or Xeomin are an alternative that may still work. Dysport, Xeomin and Botox are all preparations of botulinum toxin A which is a derived protein. It works at the nerve-muscle interface to relax targeted muscles. 

It is very possible to develop resistance to onabotulinum toxin A (Botox Cosmetic), although rare. It would be a great idea to try Dysport with an injector who is experienced in using both of these drugs to see if you can get the same results with Dysport as you used to with Botox.

Most physicians who inject much Botox for cosmetic use are not convinced of the development a resistance to Botox as a real effect but there may be a couple of my patients who don't maintain benefit longer than two months despite considerable units being injected.  Switching to Dysport might be worthwhile despite both Dysport and Botox being composed of serotype A of Botunlinum toxin and therefore a difference in resistance shouldn't be an issue. It might be worthwhile to try Dysport as there is at least one report in the medical literature that Dysport may last a few weeks longer.