Xeomin®
Xeomin® is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Merz, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, neck spasms, jaw pain, and migraines.
Xeomin is composed of botulinum toxin type A, a naturally occurring protein that is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Xeomin is injected into the affected muscles in order to reduce their activity. Xeomin does not stop the muscle from moving entirely; instead, it modifies the contractions. This is achieved by inhibiting a body chemical called acetylcholine from signaling all of the nerves within the muscle to contract.
The number of injections necessary will vary from patient to patient, depending upon the number of muscles affected and the severity of the condition. The results of treatment with Xeomin are usually seen after one week and last, on the average, up to 12 weeks.
Investment: $12/unit
Applications for Xeomin
Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, botuliunum toxin A was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. Botulinum toxin A is used to treat the following:
- Forehead furrows
- Frown lines
- Crow's feet
- Skin bands on the neck
- Bunny lines on the nose
- Lip lines (aka smoker's lines)
- Gummy smile
- Pouty lips (downturned smile)
- Pebble chin
- Masseter muscles to alleviate pain, clenching, and grinding related to TMJ
Procedure and Results
Using a very fine needle, Xeomin is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some injectors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.
Risks of Xeomin Treatment
Injection-site side effects of Xeomin are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:
- Pain
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Redness
- Bleeding
- Bruising
