Reviewed by To confirm (Q1, Q18): the name and license of the clinician who reviews this post (the medical director, once his license is verified), To confirm (Q18): the review date, and the date this post is published
Botox vs Dysport: What the FDA Labels Say
Botox and Dysport are both prescription botulinum toxin type A products, and both are used to soften lines caused by muscle movement. They are separate products, each with its own FDA labeling. This post sets out what each label says, so you know what to ask at your consultation. It does not say one is better than the other: that choice is made with your provider.
Same Drug Class, Different Products
BOTOX Cosmetic is onabotulinumtoxinA. Dysport is abobotulinumtoxinA. Both labels describe the product as an acetylcholine release inhibitor and neuromuscular blocking agent, and both cosmetic uses are for the temporary improvement in the appearance of lines.
Approved Cosmetic Areas
- BOTOX Cosmetic: moderate to severe frown lines between the brows (glabellar lines), crow's feet (lateral canthal lines), forehead lines and neck bands (platysma bands), in adults.
- Dysport: moderate to severe frown lines between the brows (glabellar lines), in adults under 65.
Units Are Not Interchangeable
Both labels state that their units are specific to that product and cannot be compared to, or converted into, the units of any other botulinum toxin product. For frown lines, the BOTOX Cosmetic label gives a total dose of 20 Units and the Dysport label a total dose of 50 Units. Those numbers measure different things and are not a conversion rate, so a price per unit for one product cannot be compared with a price per unit for the other.
How Long Results Last
To confirm (Q15): one statement on how soon results appear and how long they last, written from the two labels and checked by your reviewing clinician. Your Botox page says results show in 3-7 days and last 3-4 months; your Botox blog post says three to six months.
Side Effects and the Boxed Warning
Both labels carry the same boxed warning: the effect of any botulinum toxin product may spread from the injection area and cause symptoms such as general muscle weakness, double vision, drooping eyelids, and trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing, from hours to weeks after an injection. Trouble swallowing or breathing can be life threatening. Get medical help right away if you notice any of these symptoms.
Each label also lists the side effects seen in its own studies. Your provider can go through them with you before treatment.
Who Should Not Be Treated
The labels say these products should not be used if you are allergic to any botulinum toxin product or to an ingredient in the product, or if there is an infection where the injection would go. Dysport's label also lists an allergy to cow's milk protein.
How We Choose
To confirm (Q6): which of the two products you offer and how you and the patient choose between them at a consultation, in your own words. Please do not describe either product as better: California advertising rules do not allow a claim of superiority without objective scientific evidence.
Book a Consultation
To talk through which product fits your goals, book a consultation or read more on our Botox and Dysport page.
Sources: BOTOX Cosmetic prescribing information and Dysport prescribing information, FDA labeling on DailyMed, retrieved October 21, 2026.