Dysport is a neuromuscular blocking toxin available in Europe since the 1990s.
Uses for Adolescents
Dysport is approved by the FDA for cervical dystonia (a repetitive contraction of the neck muscles) to ease pain and disturbing muscle spasms. Dysport treatments for muscle spasticity is not an FDA approved use, as the doses are often much higher.
IAS (Internal Anal Sphincter) achalasia is a medical disorder where the IAS fails to relax. There have been reports of uses for this condition and also for anal fissures (painful tears of the skin) where other conservative measures have failed.
Dysport Side Effects
Although studies suggest that Dysport is a safe and effective means of improving motor functioning disabilities, and that usually side effects are mild and short term, there have been reports of swallowing and breathing difficulties, and reports of deaths.
Other reported side effects are injection site pain, dysphagia (difficulty with swallowing), extreme weakness of the infected and adjacent muscles, headaches, hoarseness or trouble talking, eyelid edema (swelling of soft tissues), dry mouth, sensory loss and fatigue. These side effects can appear hours to weeks after injection.
Because cell turnover is quicker in adolescents, healing time is faster. However, Dysport is not recommended for any patients that are under the age of 18.
