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Deoxycholic acid

Generic name: deoxycholic acid [dee-OX-i-KOE-lik-AS-id]
Brand name: Kybella
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (10 mg/mL)
Classification of drugs: miscellaneous uncategorized agents

What is Deoxycholic Acid?

Deoxycholic acid can be described as a human-made version of a chemical your body produces through the process of absorbing fats. Deoxycholic acid is a powerful agent that destroys fat cells when introduced into the body. Deoxycholic acid can reduce the look of fat beneath the chin. It is also called a double chin. Deoxycholic acid is not examined for its safety in other parts of the body. Deoxycholic acid could also be used for other purposes not covered in this medication guide.

Side effects of deoxycholic acid

Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms or warning signs of allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, tongue, throat, or face,

Deoxycholic acid can cause serious adverse side effects. Contact your physician immediately in the event of:

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Facial muscles are weak.
  • A crooked smile;
  • Open skin sores or dripping around the treated areas or
  • Discomfort, burning, or skin changes after the injection was administered.

Common adverse effects of deoxycholic acid could include:

  • Hardening or numbness of treated areas
  • Hair loss in treated areas; or
  • Redness, pain, swelling, or bruises from affected areas

This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Similar drugs

Kybella

Warnings

Follow the directions on the label of your medication and the package. Be sure to inform your health professionals about your medical ailments and allergies, as well as the medicines you are taking.

Before you start taking this medicine.

You shouldn't be treated with deoxycholic acids if you have an allergy to the substance or if you suffer from

  • An area that is located in or around the area that needs to be treated.

Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:

  • Surgical procedure or any other cosmetic treatment to your neck or the face (or should you decide to undergo surgery on any of these regions);
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • A thyroid disorder
  • Lymph glands that are swollen in your neck
  • A bleeding or blood clotting disorder like hemophilia.

It isn't known if deoxycholic acid could harm a newborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant.

It might not be safe to breastfeed while using this medication. Talk to your doctor about any potential risks.

Deoxycholic acid has not been approved for use by anyone less than 18 years of age.

What is deoxycholic acid?

Deoxycholic acid can be injected under the skin, directly in the area below your cheeks. Your doctor will offer the injection. It is possible to treat the issue with the use of a topical numbing medication or a cold pack to help ease discomfort and make you feel more comfortable during injections. Deoxycholic acid should be administered in a sequence of up to six treatments for it to be effective. You can receive 50 to 100 injections per session.

Each session should be scheduled for not less than a month between sessions. Many patients have seen noticeable results after two or four sessions. The doctor will help you determine the appropriate amount of injections and the number of sessions you will require, based on the outcome you desire.

Details on dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Submental Fat Reduction:

A dose that is adjusted to an area of 2 mg/cm2 is administered subcutaneously into the fat tissue of the submental region.

Comments:
A single treatment comprises up to 50 injectables of 0.2 milliliters each (up to 10 mL) separated by 1 cm.
Six treatments may be given at intervals of no less than one month between.
The number of injections as well as the frequency of treatments must be customized to each patient's submental fat distribution as well as treatment objectives.

Utilization: Improves the appearance of severe to moderate convexity or fullness caused by submental fat.

Do I be concerned if I miss a dose?

Consult your physician for the appropriate treatment if you do not make an appointment to receive the deoxycholic acid infusion.

What will happen if I take excessively?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any dietary restrictions or beverages.

Interaction with other drugs

Discuss with your doctor any other medications you take, particularly:

  • A blood thinner – warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven; or
  • Any other medications that can help prevent blood clots.

This list is not exhaustive. Other drugs can interact with deoxycholic acid, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies. The interactions of all drugs are listed here.