Daxxify is the newest neurotoxin injectable approved by the FDA. Some prominent names in the family of neurotoxins are Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau. These injectables aim to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, treat jowls, alter the facial structure in one way or another, or even treat hair loss. These may seem like a wide range of conditions for the same family of drugs to target, but once you understand how neurotoxins work, it makes more sense. Understanding the different mechanisms of action will also help you determine which injectable is right for you.
Neurotoxins
Neurotoxins are chemical signals that can alter the strength and excitability of neural connections. They bind to specific receptors or the neuron and thus block or weaken incoming signals.
Botox vs. Daxxify
Botox and Daxxify are neurotoxin treatments that aim to reduce wrinkles and fine lines; they both work at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting the release of the neuromodulator called acetylcholine. Normally, the nerves transmit an activation message to the muscle by releasing acetylcholine into the space between the nerve and the muscle. Blocking the release of this chemical neuromodulator results in failed muscle activation, causing paralysis or weakness.
Similarities and Differences
As neurotoxins, both of these injectables are skeletal muscle relaxants. As such, the two are similar in many ways.
Both injectables are prescription only and have a similar profile regarding drug interactions – both are reported to have 24 major drug interactions and 90 moderate drug interactions. Similarly, neither Botox nor Daxxify has alcohol or food interactions. The two injectables can cause complications in individuals with dysphagia, respiratory and neuromuscular disorders, and infections.
Despite the broadly similar drug profiles, Botox and Daxxify have some crucial differences, too. These distinctive traits determine the correct neurotoxin for your purposes and how long the results will last.
Daxxify has abobotulinumtoxinA (ABO) as a base, while Botox uses onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA). The two injectables also use different stabilizers for botulin. Botox uses albumin, while Daxxify uses a peptide instead.
Daxxify is also not recommended for patients with cardiovascular diseases, while Botox is advised against if the patient has UTI.
Side Effects and Complications
Both drugs’ side effects can range from mild to critical. The more severe side effects generally involve the toxin botulinum spreading beyond the intended area. Depending on the migration area, extent, and the patient’s medical history, the spread can cause critical and fatal issues.
Natural Looking Treatment Results For Crows Feet & Forehead Wrinkles
The early signs of crows feet and forehead wrinkles started to reveal themselves on this patient. Dr. U performed a Botox treatment to create the subtle improvements that she wanted.
Which one is right for you
Although both neurotoxins are relatively fast-acting, Daxxify provides more immediate results based on clinical trials.
When considering which injectable to use, it’s also essential to consider the treatment area. Currently, Daxxify is only approved for treating frown (glabellar) lines, so if that’s your specific target area, Daxxify may be the better choice, assuming the claim of its effects lasting longer holds.
Botox has a much more comprehensive array of uses, including its off-label uses. Some of these uses include the treatment of jowls, frown lines, crows’ feet, smoker’s lines, gummy smiles, horizontal forehead lines, horizontal neck lines, and more.
Ultimately, choosing between these treatments depends on individual preferences and desired outcomes. Daxxify and Botox each have their advantages, so which one is better for you depends on your specific goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which injectable lasts longer?
The results’ length mainly depends on the patient’s metabolic rate and the stabilizer used in the injectable. Daxxify uses a peptide as a stabilizer instead of the human blood serum albumin used in Botox. The peptide makes botulin more stable, so the results typically last longer.
Are Daxxify side effects worse than Botox side effects?
Daxxify and Botox side effects are similar – potential bruising, headaches, and migration risk.
References
1. Daxxify: Uses, dosage, side effects & warnings. Drugs.com. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.drugs.com/daxxify.html.
2. Onabotulinumtoxina Injection: Uses, side effects, interactions, pictures, warnings & dosing. WebMD. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153463/onabotulinumtoxina-injection/details.
3. Rapaport L, Migala J, Petrarca M, Groth L, Lawler M, Haupt A. Daxxify: 8 things to know about the new Botox Alternative. EverydayHealth.com. Accessed June 28, 2023. https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-skin/fda-approves-daxxify-things-to-know-about-botox-alternative/.
