Botox has been king of anti-wrinkle treatments for years. Since its introduction by its manufacturer, Allergan, in 2002, millions of women and men have received Botox injections to smooth wrinkles and get rid of “frown lines.” Producing more than a billion dollars in revenues each year, Botox creates very good business for Allergan Pharmaceuticals. But new FDA requirements and new competition could spell trouble for the future of Botox.
The botulinum toxin Botox is widely known for its cosmetic and dermatological procedures, but it is also used to treat several other health issues. People who suffer from muscle spasms are treated with Botox, but unfortunately, there have been deaths reported among people who use the injections for this type of treatment. Most of the deaths have been children receiving treatment to control muscle spasms associated with cerebral palsy, and adults being treated for migraines and cervical dystonia.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that Botox (and similar products) will now be required to have boxed warnings to help people understand the potential risks of the products. While none of the deaths have been “clearly attributable” to Botox injections, the FDA is playing it safe with the updated labeling. However, the new warnings could cause patients and potential patients to think twice before receiving a Botox injection.
Something else that may affect Botox sales is a new botulinum toxin product that was just approved by the FDA called Dysport. This product has been in use in the U.K. and other countries for years, and some doctors claim Dysport works more quickly and lasts longer than Botox. Additionally, Dysport is said to be a cheaper option, which may be reason enough for patients to choose Dysport over Botox, especially in the present economy.
It’s unsure how much of an effect the new FDA warnings and the release of the new botulinum toxin product will have on Botox, if any at all. Dysport will also be required to display the new FDA warnings, so Botox will more than likely not have to worry about losing money to the competition due to these warnings. Botox has increased in popularity for nearly 8 years. Millions and millions of people have enjoyed the results of Botox injections for both cosmetic and therapeutic use. In 2008 alone, 2.5 million Americans had Botox injections for cosmetic reasons. Dysport has the potential to provide fierce competition, but whether it’s mighty enough to dethrone the popular Botox remains to be seen.
