Botox® Brands - Discover The Differences

Are there any differences between different brands of Botox®?

Anon, Huapai.

Botulinum toxin comes in many forms, manufactured differently by different brands.  “Botox®” was a clever name coined by the company Allergan and is still readily available today.  Other players on the New Zealand market include Xeomin® by Merz and Dysport® by Galderma.  Multiple other brands exist worldwide, however in Aotearoa MedSafe approval only exists for these three players, meaning only they can be used legally in New Zealand.

Every brand will tell you theirs is best, for the simple reason they want people to use their product.  Interestingly, all research around individual brands usually come to the same conclusion: the higher the dose used, the longer the effects last.  So the more frozen you are to start with, the longer it will take for full muscle strength to return. 

Xeomin® is formulated without complexing proteins, so is considered purer than the other brands.  Injectors may prefer this option as it theoretically minimizes risk of neutralizing antibodies developing over time and hence less risk of resistance to repeated treatments.  Other brands argue this effect is negligible as complexing proteins are released when the product is injected into and metabolized by muscles.

Dysport® is formulated and concentrated differently to Botox® and Xeomin®.  Less volume of Dysport® is therefore needed to achieve the same effect, so injections may be less painful.  This is a subjective advantage however, as many do not notice a difference, especially if certain saline preparations are used to take away the stingy sensation.  Some argue Dysport® is more spready in its effect, so is advantageous for larger treatment areas, however other companies argue against this, claiming all brands spread equally from their respective injection sites. 

So there are many ways to skin a cat.  So long as injectors are aware of the properties, advantages, and disadvantages of the products they use, then it probably doesn’t make much difference at the end of the day.  The most important considerations for injectors are to ensure the products they use are made by legitimate manufacturers (i.e. not counterfeit), are stored and reconstituted correctly, and are used before they expire.  It always pays to ask your injector what they use and why, to ensure you have confidence they understand what they are using, so you receive the best possible care you deserve.

Quick Answers:

Are there differences between Botox® brands?

Yes. Different brands of botulinum toxin are manufactured differently and have varying formulations, concentrations, and properties.

Which Botox® brands are approved for use in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, Medsafe approval exists for three brands only: Botox® (Allergan), Xeomin® (Merz), and Dysport® (Galderma).

Is one Botox® brand better than the others?

Not necessarily. Research generally shows that results depend more on dose and technique than on brand alone.

How does Xeomin® differ from other Botox® brands?

Xeomin® is formulated without complexing proteins, making it a purer form of botulinum toxin, which may reduce the risk of resistance over time.

How is Dysport® different from Botox® and Xeomin®?

Dysport® is more concentrated, meaning less volume is needed for similar effects. Some people find injections more comfortable, although results are comparable.

What matters more than the brand of Botox® used?

The skill and knowledge of the injector, correct dosing, proper storage, and using legitimate, approved products are more important than brand choice alone.

If you have a question for Dr. Heather you would like answered anonymously, please email askdrheather@allor.co.nz.

Xeomin® (incobotulinum toxin) Prescription Medicine for the treatment of upper facial lines: glabellar frown lines, crow’s feet around the eyes, horizontal forehead lines.  Xeomin® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Xeomin® is right for you (incobotulinum toxin A, purified Botulinum toxin type A 50 Units and 100 Units). For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Merz, Sydney. Distributed by Healthcare Logistics, Auckland.

Dysport®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes. Dysport® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Dysport is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 300 or 500 Ipsen Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Galderma, Auckland.

Botox®, Prescription Medicine For the treatment of frown lines and crow’s feet around the eyes.  Botox® has risks and benefits. Ask your doctor if Botox is right for you. Botulinum toxin type A 50, 100, 200 Units. For product information check with your doctor or Consumer Medicine Information on www.medsafe.govt.nz. Click for further details. Allergan, Auckland.