Juvederm: Newest Dermal Filler

On June 2, 2006, the FDA approved the Juvederm (R) family of products, manufactured by Allergan, which also manufactures BOTOX (R) Cosmetics. Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm UltraPlus are the newest additions to the family of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers.

Hyaluronic dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally ocurring substance in the body. Hyaluronic fillers are best used for deep facial folds and wrinkles, and they last approximately three-six months. They are easier to place than the earlier types of dermal fillers, and give a more natural appearance after treatment.

Juvederm products are smooth gel, non-animal hyaluronic acid fillers. It is reportedly better than other alternative fillers because it lasts longer, thanks to a special proprietary formulation process, consisting, in part, of a higher concentration of cross-linked hyaluronic acid molecules. The cross-linking serves, effectively, to slow the rate of disintegration of the filler. Patients will then be able to retain facial improvements for a longer time between treatments.

Juvederm is the only FDA approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler which has been demonstrated effective and safe for patients of all skin types and all skin colors.

Physicians around the country will be offering Juvederm treatment as part of Allergan approved clinical trials during the months of December 2006 and January 2007.

If these trials proceed satisfactorily, Juvederm will likely be widely available for the general public by Fall, 2007.