When reconstituting the botox with saline, does it matter whether or not it is with preservative, or preservative free?

Question

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

In terms of the effectiveness of the Botox, and the results you will achieve, studies have not shown any difference when reconstituting with nonpreserved versus preserved sterile saline.  The primary clinical difference is that preserved saline contains benzyl alcohol, which has some anesthetic properties (numbing), so it is theoretically a little less uncomfortable for the patient.

Jo Herzog, MD · Answer

Botox can reconstituted with normal saline or with bacteriostatic normal saline. The bacteriostatic saline makes the Botox much less uncomfortable to inject as it acts as an anesthtic so we use bacteriostatic saline all of the time

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Even though the FDA approved why to reconstitute Botox is with normal saline, most doctors use saline with preservative because it hurts less when injected.  There have been no studies that I'm aware of that says the Botox is negatively affected by this.

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Mbrown.ma, The reconstituting of the Botox is done with preservative free saline. This is the guidelines set up by Allergan corporation and my surgical technician of over 25  years who mixes up my Botox always uses preservative free. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

When reconstituting the botox with saline, does it matter whether or not it is with preservative, or preservative free?

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox reconstituting with preservative free saline

Answer: Botox reconstituting with preservative free saline

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When reconstituting the botox with saline, does it matter whether or not it is with preservative, or preservative free?

Answers (4)

Answer: Botox reconstituting with preservative free saline

Answer: Botox reconstituting with preservative free saline

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Botox

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.