A new Botox competitor from Ipsen and Medicis Pharmaceutical has received FDA approval for treating wrinkles and dystonia. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists may have the drug available for cosmetic use in just 30 – 60 days.
Rather than rebranding the drug ‘Reloxin’ as planned, Medicis decided to retain its original European name, Dysport
The April 30th announcement coincided with a 3 percent drop in Allergan’s (maker of Botox) shares, and a 14 percent increase of Medicis shares. Analysts and industry professionals expect Dysport to carry a slightly lower price tag than Botox, and say it could capture as much as 30 percent of the current market.
Botox and Dysport both perform the same basic function – neuromuscular blocking to relax and prevent wrinkles. Dysport however, is said to be more diluted than Botox and thus more cost effective for providers. The recent FDA approval of dysport also came with a unique warning label describing the risks associated with the botulinum toxin.
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