Is generic Kybella safe?

Question

I went to the doctor to get Kybella yesterday, while I was in the chair they recommended a “generic” Kybella. Saying it was so much cheaper and it had the same outcome. They were a little pushy and I ended up going for it. Now that I’m thinking about it I’m a little worried. Should I have done the regular Kybella? I’m really sore and swollen the day after. Can’t move my neck and I’m worried because I can’t find any research about a generic Kybella online.

Muhammad Mirza, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Thank you for your question. I'm not exactly sure what product you received, but I would be hesitant to use anything other than Kybella. Kybella is the only product that has been approved by the FDA to treat submental fat. It's better to be safe than sorry. I would suggest following up with your injector.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer because I'm not sure what product was used exactly, but I recommend getting FDA-approved Kybella. If you remain concerned, I recommend following up with your practitioner. Kybella take 1-3 treatments every 6 weeks.  Patient will develop swelling and possible bruising after each injection that may last a few days.  The benefit of Kybella is each treatment is quick and completed in the office. However, some patients need more than one treatment to get desired results.

David A. Lickstein, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Kybella is the only FDA-approved treatment for submental fat, and it is unclear based on your question the name of the treatment you had in your doctor’s office. If you are concerned or are having problems after your treatment, you should contact your performing board-certified plastic surgeon immediately to determine which injectable was used during your office visit. In the future, your safest option will always be to have only FDA-approved treatments used on label. I wish you a safe and speedy recovery. Good luck!

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

Kybella is the only FDA cleared medication for submental fat.  My guess is they don't want to pay for the real Kybella themselves?  I am not aware of any other FDA cleared product.  Kybella was 10 years in coming to market and is backed by significant research, clinical trials and a reputable company (Allergan) distributing it.   I would revisit whomever you saw and ask for straight answers.  Find a reputable plastic surgeon or dermatologist to treat you.  Good luck!

Susan Longar, MD · Answer

Dear emcatee,
To the best of my knowledge, no FDA approved version of Kybella exists.  In my clinic, we only buy inject-ables from the manufacturer to avoid any question of counterfeit products or products that are not currently legal in the U.S.  You may wish to return to your injector and find out specifically what you were injected with.

Is generic Kybella safe?

Answers (5)