A Review of Current Data on Duration of Effect in Glabellar Lines After Treatment With AbobotulinumtoxinA 50 U.

Background: AbobotulinumtoxinA has become well established as a treatment option for moderate to severe glabellar lines since its first aesthetic approval in 2009.

Objective: Pivotal trials leading to regulatory approval showed that abobotulinumtoxinA treatment was associated with high responder rates when defined as achievement of none or mild glabellar lines (0 or 1 on the glabellar line severity scale) and a duration of action of up to 5 months. More recently, the goals for treatment of glabellar lines have shifted toward not only achieving a decrease in glabellar line severity but also ensuring that patients are satisfied with their experience.

Materials and methods: Patients seek an improvement in the appearance of their glabellar lines while maintaining a "natural look," fast onset of effect, and long duration of response.

Results: Trial designs have evolved to meet these new targets, including expanding the definition of responders to those having at least 1-grade improvement in the glabellar line severity scale score from baseline coupled with the use of subject satisfaction and psychological well-being questionnaires.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that abobotulinumtoxinA remains a well-tolerated and consistently effective treatment option associated with a rapid onset of effect, duration of efficacy lasting up to 6 months, and high, long-lasting levels of patient satisfaction.