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Dysport vs Botox: Key Differences and Effectiveness

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Aug 15, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Dysport and Botox Cosmetic are both used as cosmetic anti-aging treatments. But what are the key differences between these botulinum toxin type A injections?

Botox Cosmetic contains onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA), while Dysport contains abobotulinumtoxinA (ABO) - both are botulinum toxin type A formulations. Botox received FDA approval back in 1991, with Dysport following in 2009.

Both treatments block nerve signals to facial muscles, though their different manufacturing processes and resulting non-toxic protein content create variations in potency, onset time, and duration.

Main differences between Botox and Dysport injections

Dosage differences: Dysport vs Botox units

Dosages are never interchangeable between Botox and Dysport - each has specific requirements.

Related questions

Dysport vs Botox effectiveness comparison

Studies comparing these treatments show conflicting results.

FDA-approved uses: Botox vs Dysport

Botox has broader FDA approval than Dysport.

References
  • Botox Cosmetic. Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/botox-cosmetic.html
  • Botox. Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/botox.html
  • Dysport. Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/dysport.html
  • Nestor MS, Ablon GR. Comparing the clinical attributes of abobotulinumtoxinA and onabotulinumtoxinA utilizing a novel contralateral Frontalis model and the Frontalis Activity Measurement Standard. J Drugs Dermatol. 2011 Oct;10(10):1148-57
  • Nestor MS, Ablon GR. Duration of Action of AbobotulinumtoxinA and OnabotulinumtoxinA: A Randomized, Double-blind Study Using a Contralateral Frontalis Model. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2011;4(9):43-49

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How many units of Botox do I need and what will it cost?

Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) is measured in units, and the number of units you need depends on the treatment area, muscle strength, and your goals. Most providers charge $10–$25 per unit in the U.S.

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Where do they inject Botox for migraines?

Botox is injected into 7 specific muscle areas around your head and neck to help prevent migraine headaches before they start. Areas include your forehead, bridge of the nose, temples, neck, back of the head, and just above the shoulder blades in your upper back. Continue reading

Does Botox for migraines also help with wrinkles?

Botox Cosmetic is used for aesthetic purposes for wrinkles and Botox is used as a therapeutic treatment for different medical conditions, including migraine headache prevention. Botox Cosmetic and Botox come as separate products but are both prescription medicines that contain the active ingredient onabotulinumtoxinA. Continue reading

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