Another alternative to Botox hits the market with FDA approval!

Exciting news in the dermatology / med spa market, and at Sonata – the FDA has approved another alternative to Botox, called Jeuveau! Right now it’s FDA approved for treating frown (glabellar) lines, with more clinical trials in the works.

Jeuveau is the creation of California based dermatology giant, Evolus, and is headed by two former Allergan (the makers of Botox) executives. While there have been alternatives to Botox already approved by the FDA like Xeomin and Dysport, Jeuveau is the first 900 dKa alternative. The term “900 dKa” refers to its molecular size and weight, which is the same as Botox, and considered the gold standard. Evolus, and Jeuveau, are a bit different because they are positioning themselves as aesthetics only, no therapeutics – which could mean more pricing flexibility for the consumers.

According to Evolus, Jeuveau is different in that it’s manufactured with their proprietary Hi-Pure technology. What that means with regards to the product’s longevity should be more evident when five-month results from a head-to-head study comparing Botox to Jeuveau are published. We anticipate these studies will come out over the summer, and are looking forward to the results.

Why choose a neuromodulator other than Botox?

While there are a few neuromodulators on the market right now, Botox is definitely the the leader with about 70% market share. Dysport follows with about 20% share, and Xeomin has about 10%. Why is Botox so popular? Well, it has the distinct advantage of being the first neurotoxin on the market, which means first to FDA approval, and is now a household name synonymous with aesthetic injectables. It’s sort of like Kleenex or Coke that way – when you want to treat frown lines, smile lines, or other wrinkles, more than likely you’re asking for Botox (even if it’s not what your Dr. will end up using). At Sonata we want to give our patients a number of options so we can help choose what will work the best for you. So, why Dysport or Jeuveau? All aesthetic neurotoxins are essentially the same formula – botulinum toxin type A – with a few different properties.

Over time we have noticed that many of our patients become resistant to a particular product, like Botox, and have to use a much larger amount to achieve the same results. We’ve had great success with switching to Dysport in these cases – less product for the same or better results. While Botox and Jeuveau are both 900 dKa, considered the “gold standard”, some areas are better treated with a softer approach. First time patients can especially benefit from a product like Dysport.

We’re always striving to provide the best results, to help you be the best you, so offering another alternative is a no-brainer for us.

How do neuromodulators work?

Botulinum toxin is one of the most powerful neurotoxins known to man and has proven to be an incredibly successful and valuable therapeutic protein. It can be injected into humans in small doses, and works by preventing muscles from receiving signals from nerve cells – either paralyzing or weakening them. Botox®, Dysport, and now Jeuveau help to prevent the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that attaches to muscle cells and causes them to contract. Because they prevent this from happening, the muscles become less stiff and essentially “soften” in the treated area(s). When the pull of the muscle relaxes, the overlying skin generally flattens out – thus reducing wrinkles and/or creases.

What can they be used for?

Facial expression lines develop from the action of the underlying muscles on the skin. Although these lines help us to convey to others a range of emotional states, some facial expression lines always seem to express fatigue or anger, even if those appearances do not represent how we are feeling.

This is especially true of the lines of the forehead and between the eyebrows. Other lines, such as crow’s feet, may make us appear older than our chronological age. Botox®, Dysport, and Jeuveau are used to block the nerve impulses that tell those muscles to move, revealing a fresh, healthy look. Essentially they used to treat wrinkles that are found when you make facial expressions, giving you a younger, natural-looking face!

FAQ’s about Jeuveau

What does Jeuveau actually do?

In clinical trials, Jeuveau™ was shown to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines In 2 long-term safety studies, patients received an average of 3 treatments over the course of 1 year. Amount of product and frequency of treatment will vary from patient to patient, and will be discussed in your free consultation with Dr. Janowski

Are there side effects?

As with any neuromodulator, the most commonly reported side effects can include headache, eyelid drooping, upper respiratory tract infection and increased white blood cell count. No serious drug-related adverse events were observed in the clinical studies of Jeuveau.

If you are becoming to resistant to other neurotoxins like Botox, Xeomin, or Dysport, or are a first time patient looking for great results – maybe Jeuveau is right for you! Give us a call at 303.469.0064 or send us an email to set up an appointment with Dr. Janowski. We look forward to helping you live your best life!

Schedule a consultation with Sonata Aesthetics today. Serving Broomfield, Denver, Westminster, Boulder, Arvada, and surrounding areas.

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