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ATX-101 for reduction of submental fat
1Academic Teaching Hospital Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Department of Dermatology and Allergology , Friedrichstrasse 41, 01067 Dresden , Germany wollina-uw@khdf.de.
Introduction:
Facial esthetics are important for self-esteem. Undesired submental fat (SMF) deposits lead to an unappealing submental profile associated with aging and overweight. Compound ATX-101 is a proprietary formulation of purified synthetic deoxycholic acid for pharmacological submental contouring. Review areas covered: This reviews covers anatomy of SMF, biochemistry of deoxycholic acid related to adipose tissue and tissue response to injection of ATX-101. Data from clinical trials were analyzed for efficacy and safety.
Methodology:
Published studies using PubMed(©) database 2000 - 2014 have been analyzed. The terms 'deoxycholate', 'deoxycholic acid', 'ATX-101' and 'injection lipolysis' were used.
Results:
Deoxycholic acid causes adipocyte breakdown and an inflammatory tissue reaction leading to fat cell reduction and limited fibrosis. Four large clinical Phase III trials demonstrated efficacy of ATX-101 in reduction of SMF measured by validated scales and objective measurements. Patients reported improved psychological features and feeling. Adverse effects were mild and temporary.
Expert Opinion:
Adipocytolysis of SMF by ATX-101 is an important step forward to the development of approved drugs for reduction of localized fat pads. This could become a growing market.
