What is Daxxify?
Daxxify (daxxibotulinumtoxinA or daxxibotulinumtoxinA-lanm) is a type of neuromodulator derived from botulinum toxin. It was FDA-approved in 2022 for the temporary improvement of moderate to severe glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows) in adults. It is an alternative to other cosmetic botulinum neurotoxins such as Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, but stands out due to its longer duration of effect, lasting 6 to 9 months, compared to the typical 3-4 months of other neurotoxins.
How Is Daxxify Different from Botox?
Daxxify stands out because of its longer duration of effect - it lasts 6 to 9 months, compared to Botox, which typically lasts around 3 to 4 months. This extended duration is due to a proprietary peptide stabilizer, which eliminates the need for human serum albumin (a common stabilizer in other botulinum toxins).
Mechanism of Action of Daxxify
Daxxify works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to targeted muscles, preventing them from contracting and thereby reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Like other botulinum toxin type A products, it inhibits the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle relaxation. What sets Daxxify apart is its peptide-based stabilizer, which enhances its binding efficiency and prolongs its duration of action lasting an average of six months or more, compared to the typical three to four months seen with Botox. This extended effect reduces the frequency of treatments needed for sustained wrinkle reduction.
How is Daxxify Administered?
Daxxify is administered via intramuscular injection by a trained healthcare provider into the area between the eyebrows. In general, the procedure involves the following steps:
- The skin is cleansed with an antiseptic.
- A numbing cream or ice may be applied to minimize discomfort.
- A fine needle is used to inject Daxxify into the target area.
- The number of injections and units used depends on the treatment area and individual needs.
- The process takes about 10–15 minutes and requires no downtime.
Post-Injection Care and Results
After the procedure is completed, patients are advised to avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise, lying down, or excessive heat (e.g., saunas) for several hours. Mild swelling or bruising is normal and typically resolves quickly. Effects start within 1–2 days, with full results in 2 weeks. Results last 6–9 months, significantly longer than Botox (3–4 months).
Side Effects
Although Daxxify is well tolerated, it is associated with certain adverse effects, such as:
- Headaches
- Injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, and pain
- Drooping eyelids
- Difficulty moving facial muscles
- Allergic reactions
- Risk of toxin spread leading to muscle weakness in unintended areas