Storing Xeomin and Bocouture
If you use an alternative brand of botulinum toxin, such as Xeomin or its cosmetic version Bocouture, we have good news! These products do not require refrigeration normally and may last longer than the manufacturer suggests.
Merz suggests that Xeomin medication can be used up to 36 months after its manufacturer date, but research suggests that, after 48 months in the refrigerator or stored at up to 25° C, the neurotoxin is just as effective. Additionally, when they tested Xeomin that had been stored for 18 months at 30° C and six months at 40° C, the neurotoxin was still stable. Even at 60° C for one month and 80° C for five days, Xeomin still showed at least partial activity.
According to Merz, reconistituted Xeomin or Bocouture can be placed in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, researchers believe that this too may be unnecessarily conservative. After leaving Xeomin solution at room temperature for one week, researchers found no statistical difference in effectiveness or duration compared to freshly-prepared solution. Even if you prepare your Xeomin before a last-minute cancellation and then forget it on the counter, it may still be suitable for use, saving hundreds of dollars in wasted product.
Storing Dysport and AZZALURE®
Another popular botulinum toxin brand is Dysport, and its cosmetic version AZZALURE®. These products should be stable and effective after 24 months of storage in the refrigerator, as long as they have not been frozen. A study by L. Parraga et al. discovered that Dysport medications could be stored at room temperature for up to three days without a reduction in efficacy. That is peace of mind!
Storing Myobloc and Neurobloc
Botulinum aren’t just for cosmetic clinics. Some doctors use Myobloc, also known as Neurobloc, to treat muscle spasms. This botulinum toxin type B solution cannot be frozen, but can be left at room temperature for some time according to its manufacturer, Eisai. After keeping Myobloc in the refrigerator, they suggest that it can then be stored at room temperature for up to three months, but not placed back in the refrigerator. However, research suggests that, even after leaving your Myobloc in the refrigerator for 21 months and then keeping it at room temperature for six months, you can still move it back to the refrigerator. It seems that if you move your botulinum toxin from cold storage, you can still change your mind.
Although it is safest to follow the manufacturer’s storage recommendations, scenarios out of a doctor’s control sometimes occur. Research suggests that even if your botulinum toxin is left in the hot delivery truck or on the table, or if the refrigerator breaks down or a patient cancels their appointment, there is no need to worry. It will still be effective.
There are also guides on proper storage for other products, such as Fillmed, available online at MedicaDepot.com, along with product pricing.
