For at least a decade, Botox has been the stand alone drug for relaxing wrinkles. But, in the last few years many new neuromodulator drugs have come on the market. So, I wanted to set the record straight.
First, let’s discuss the history and action of both Botox and Xeomin. Botox was first developed in 2002 by a company called Allergan and Xeomin developed in 2010 by Merz Pharmaceuticals. Both drugs are made from Botulinum Toxin type A. Both drugs have the same mechanism of action. Both drugs have FDA approval for treatment of facial wrinkles.
Mechanism of Action:
When injected into the muscle the drug prevents the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine from axon endings located at the neuromuscular junction. Thus, the muscle is unable to contract creating a relaxed look in the muscle being targeted.
So, what’s the difference?
Answer: It all comes down to how the drug is formulated.
When Merz developed Xeomin the process they use to isolate the neuromodulator stripped away excess proteins, making the drug more stable for storing, shipping and injecting. Xeomin is referred to as the “naked” neurotoxin because the drug contains only one ingredient, botulinum toxin A.
Now, let’s look at Botox. When manufactured Botox does have added proteins to help stabilize botulinum toxin A. These extra proteins in Botox does pose a risk of your body responding to these added proteins.
Does Xeomin have the same effects as Botox?
Yes, I have injected both and still use both in practice. I have even done a study on myself injecting both Botox and Xeomin and I couldn’t tell the difference in my results. Both neuromodulators last about 3 months with identical effects.
Conclusion:
Don’t get stuck on the brand.
Let’s look at the whole picture. Xeomin and Botox have the same mechanism of action. But, here is the difference Botox has added proteins needed to help stabilize the neurotoxin when they developed it. Excess proteins in Botox means it’s something else your body’s immune system could respond to. Xeomin does not have these proteins when formulating the drug making it a cleaner drug with the same function.
Botox is also less stable, making shipping the drug much less environmentally friendly. Botox has to come on ice in special packaging thus creating more shipping waste than its competitor. Xeomin comes in a small box and does not require the drug to be kept ice during shipping to maintain efficacy.
For me this is a no brainer.
Xeomin is the WINNER, the drug is more environmentally friendly and contains no proteins for your immune system to respond to while giving you the same outcome.
“Shine On!”
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