Botox Cosmetic or Dysport

Botox Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) and Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA) are two distinct FDA-approved botulinum toxin type A biologics used for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe facial wrinkles. Both act as neurotoxins by targeting the neuromuscular junction, where they cleave SNAP-25, a protein necessary for the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This inhibition results in temporary muscle relaxation, effectively smoothing dynamic wrinkles such as lateral orbital rhytids (crow's feet). Botox Cosmetic was developed by Allergan (now AbbVie), while Dysport was developed by Ipsen and is marketed in the US by Galderma. A Phase 4 clinical trial led by Dr. Corey S. Maas compared the two, finding Dysport to be significantly more effective in reducing crow's feet lines during maximum facial contraction, though no difference was noted at rest.

Brand names

Botox CosmeticDysport

Other names

onabotulinumtoxinAabobotulinumtoxinAbotulinum toxin type A