deoxycholic acid (Kybella)

Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) is an injectable medication used for reducing fat in the submental region of the face (below the chin). Deoxycholic acid destroys the cell membrane of fat cells causing fat cells to die. Reducing the number of fat cells reduces fat under the chin. It should not be injected in other tissues because it also destroys other cells. In clinical studies 43% of people who received deoxycholic acid achieved a 10% reduction in submental fat volume after six or fewer treatment. Only 5% of people who received placebo achieved a 10% reduction in submental fat. Deoxycholic acid was approved by the FDA in April, 2015.

What brand names are available for deoxycholic acid (Kybella)?

Kybella

Is deoxycholic acid Kybella available as a generic drug?

No

Do I need a prescription for deoxycholic acid Kybella?

Yes

Side effects of deoxycholic acid include:

• injection site swelling,
• edema,
• pain,
• numbness,
• hematoma (collection of blood in tissues),
• skin redness (erythema),
• headache,
• difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• high blood pressure, and
• nausea.

Injecting deoxycholic acid outside the submental area can cause damage to surrounding tissues. Injecting deoxycholic acid into the dermis may cause skin ulceration. Injecting deoxycholic acid into or in close proximity to the facial nerve may cause asymmetric smile and facial muscle weakness.

The recommended dose is 0.2 ml injections spaced 1-cm apart until all sites in the planned treatment area have been injected. Patients may receive up to 50 injections or 10 mL per treatment, and 6 single treatments may be administered at intervals at least 1 month apart. Deoxycholic acid must be administered by a healthcare professional. It should not be administered if the treatment area is infected.

There are no known drug interactions. Prior surgeries or aesthetic treatment of the submental area may impact response to deoxycholic acid.

There are no adequate studies of deoxycholic acid in pregnant women.

Deoxycholic acid has not been evaluated in nursing mothers.

What preparations of deoxycholic acid (Kybella) are available?

Injection: 10 mg/ml in 2 ml vials for single-patient use.

How should I keep deoxycholic acid (Kybella) stored?

Deoxycholic acid vials should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).