WARNING

Dysport, like other botulinum toxin type A injections used for cosmetic and medical purposes, can have both desired effects and potential side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with Dysport injections:

• Pain or discomfort at the injection site: It’s common to experience some pain, tenderness, or bruising at the site of injection. This typically resolves within a few days.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches after receiving Dysport injections. These headaches are usually mild and short-lived.
• Muscle weakness: Dysport works by temporarily relaxing muscles, which can lead to temporary weakness in the injected area. This is typically desired in cosmetic treatments but can cause discomfort or inconvenience in certain situations.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea after receiving Dysport injections, although this is less common.
• Flu-like symptoms: In some cases, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and chills after receiving Dysport injections. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a few days.
• Drooping eyelids (ptosis): One potential side effect of Dysport injections, especially when used around the eyes, is temporary drooping of the eyelids. This typically resolves within a few weeks as the effects of the toxin wear off.
• Swelling and redness: Swelling and redness at the injection site are common side effects of Dysport injections. These symptoms usually subside within a few days.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Dysport injections. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Allergic reactions can be serious and require immediate medical attention.

It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before undergoing Dysport treatment. Additionally, make sure to follow all post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of complications.

Why is this medication prescribed?

The symptoms of cervical dystonia (spasmodic torticollis; an uncontrollably tightening of the neck muscles that may cause neck pain and aberrant head postures) are treated with an injection of botulinum toxin A. It’s also used to temporarily eliminate frown lines, which are lines that form between the eyebrows. For adults and children two years of age and older, injections of botulinum toxin A are used to treat spasticity, or the stiffness and tightness of the muscles in the arms and legs. Neurotoxins are a group of drugs that includes injectable botulinum toxin A. It functions by obstructing the nerve signals that result in uncontrollably tense and move the muscles.

How should this medicine be used?

A physician will make up a powdered form of botulinum toxin A injection and inject it into the afflicted muscles. To treat your disease, your doctor will determine where to inject the drug. Depending on your condition and the length of time the treatment’s effects continue, you could need repeat injections of abobotulinumtoxinA every three to four months.

Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of abobotulinumtoxinA injection for cervical dystonia and gradually increase it based on how you respond to the drug.

It is not possible to interchange one brand or variety of botulinum toxin for another.

An injection of botulinum toxin A might help manage your illness, but it won’t heal it. The full effects of an abobotulinumtoxinA injection may not be felt for up to two weeks if you are using it to treat cervical dystonia.

Other uses for this medicine

Botulinum toxinAdults with blepharospasm, an uncontrollably tightening of the eyelid muscles that can result in irregular motions of the eyelids, squinting, and blinking, may also occasionally receive an injection. Discuss the risks of using this medication for your illness with your doctor.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information if you think this medicine could be recommended for something else.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for AbobotulinumtoxinA injections, here are some important points to consider:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have any neuromuscular disorders, breathing difficulties, allergies, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Medication Interactions: Make sure to disclose all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you’re taking, as some medications may interact with Dysport, particularly those that affect neuromuscular function.
• Injection Site Care: After receiving Dysport injections, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding care for the injection site. Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area, as this can cause the toxin to spread to unintended muscles.
• Potential Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, which may include temporary muscle weakness, bruising or redness at the injection site, headache, flu-like symptoms, and in rare cases, difficulty swallowing or speaking.
• Follow-up: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and address any concerns or side effects that may arise.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding Dysport injections and any other medical treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As for special dietary instructions, there are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with Dysport injections. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can support overall well-being and may contribute to optimal treatment outcomes.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Dysport, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. It’s important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one. Your healthcare provider may recommend rescheduling the appointment for the injection or adjusting the treatment schedule accordingly.

What side effects can this medication cause?

AbobotulinumtoxinA injection, commonly known as Dysport, can cause several side effects, although not everyone experiences them. These side effects can vary in severity and may include:

• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, bruising, swelling, pain, or tenderness at the injection site are common and usually resolve within a few days.
• Muscle Weakness: Dysport works by temporarily paralyzing or weakening targeted muscles. This can cause temporary weakness in treated muscles, which may affect activities like chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches after Dysport injections. These headaches are usually mild to moderate in intensity and typically resolve within a few days.
• Flu-Like Symptoms: Fatigue, fever, chills, and body aches resembling flu-like symptoms may occur in some individuals following Dysport injections. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own.
• Eyelid or Brow Drooping: Injections near the eyes or eyebrows can occasionally cause temporary drooping of the eyelid or brow. This typically resolves as the effects of Dysport wear off.
• Dry Eyes or Excessive Tearing: Dysport injections near the eyes can sometimes disrupt tear production, leading to symptoms of dry eyes or excessive tearing.
• Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking: Rarely, Dysport injections can affect muscles involved in swallowing or speaking, leading to temporary difficulty in these functions.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to Dysport can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Spread of Toxin: In rare cases, Dysport can spread beyond the injection site and affect nearby muscles, leading to unintended muscle weakness or other adverse effects.

It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before undergoing Dysport treatment. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on how to manage side effects and when to seek medical attention if they occur. Additionally, report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of AbobotulinumtoxinA Injection (Dysport), here are some important points to keep in mind:

Storage:

• Store Dysport vials in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
• Protect the vials from light. Keep them in the original carton until ready to use.
• Do not use Dysport if it has been frozen or if it has been stored at room temperature for more than 24 hours.

Disposal:

• Dispose of any unused Dysport solution properly according to local regulations or as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Unused or expired Dysport vials should be disposed of in accordance with hazardous waste disposal guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse reactions after receiving Dysport injections, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Be prepared to provide information about the dosage and timing of the injections.

What other information should I know?

• Dysport is for intramuscular use only and should be administered by a trained healthcare professional.
• Keep all appointments for Dysport injections as scheduled to maintain the desired effects.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with Dysport.
• Do not undergo Dysport treatment if you have a known allergy to any of its ingredients.
• Avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area after receiving Dysport injections to prevent the spread of the toxin to unintended muscles.
• Be aware that the effects of Dysport are temporary and typically last for several months. Repeat treatments may be necessary to maintain the desired results.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider for optimal results and safety.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, or administration of Dysport. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.