Qwo is the is the first FDA-approved injectable treatment for cellulite.
Qwo is the first FDA-approved injectable treatment for cellulite. While other injectables may reduce wrinkles through neuromodulation or by directly filling them, Quo is the first filler approved that dissolves the attachments that cause the dimples of cellulite.
Initial FDA approvals are often narrow. This is particularly true for the injectables routinely used today for cosmetic purposes. Botox’s original wrinkle indication was limited to treating the frown lines between the eyebrows. Restylane (a popular HA based dermal filler) was originally approved for filling the lines extending from the sides of the nose down to the lips (the nasolabial folds). The new kid on the block is Qwo, and its indication is for the treatment of moderate to severe cellulite of the buttocks in adult women.
The First FDA Approved Cellulite Dissolver
Qwo (Endo Aesthetic – Dublin, Ireland) is the first FDA-approved injectable treatment for cellulite. It is a CCH (collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes) intended to dissolve the collagen tethers that cause the skin dimples seen in cellulite.
The Need for Cellulite Treatment is Great
There is a huge demand and unmet need for the treatment cellulite. Prior treatments have been largely unsatisfactory. On the non-surgical front, large suction roller massage units have been used to temporarily smooth skin contours. On the surgical front, expensive laser cutters have provided, at best, partial improvement with the chance of permanent burn scars.
What is Cellulite?
There are several causes of cellulite, and this is why no single treatment has been very effective; however, one contributing factor are tough fibrous bands which connect the skin to the fascia below. They act like the buttons on a throw pillow and dimple skin by pulling it toward the muscle, causing unsightly indentations. While often associated with age, cellulite is seen at all ages and is estimated to affect 90% of women.
Prior treatments were aimed at stretching or cutting the fibrous attachments to release the dimples they cause. While most treatments, surgical and nonsurgical, have targeted these fibrous septae, Qwo uses a novel approach.
Targeting Collagen
Most beauty aids claim to enhance collagen, Qwo, on the other hand, contains collagenase, the enzyme that breaks collagen down. Specifically, it targets types 1 and 3 collagen, which may result in smoothing of the skin and an improved appearance of cellulite. It is not yet available for use, so I have no experience with it. (Only the disappointment left in the wake of its many predecessors.) But the Qwo marketing machine is getting revved up, so get ready to be bombarded with promises.
How Are Qwo Treatments Performed?
Qwo is a prescription medicine, so it will need to be prescribed by your doctor. It is administered by injection into the areas of dimpling, and three treatment sessions are recommended needed for optimal cosmetic results.
Qwo is injected into the fat (subcutaneously) of each single buttock (treatment area) by your healthcare provider. You may receive up to 12 injections per treatment area. Each treatment visit may include up to 2 treatment areas. Qwo injections will be given 21 days apart for 3 treatment visits.
What Are the Side-Effects of Qwo?
Side effects of Qwo include injection site bruising, pain, areas of hardness, itching in the treatment area, hives and other allergic reactions including anaphylaxis which can be life threatening. You should not receive Qwo if you have a bleeding problem, are pregnant or nursing. The usual avoidance of blood thinners before treatment is necessary. As always, you are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.
How Much Do Qwo Treatments Cost?
No information on the cost of Qwo is available at this time.
When Will Qwo be Available?
The current Qwo release date is in the Spring of 2021, so stay tuned. I have signed up to receive Qwo updates, and will keep you posted.
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