The medication used for lipolysis, specifically to reduce submental fullness (double chin), is deoxycholic acid, branded as Kybella.
Kybella and Deoxycholic Acid
- Deoxycholic Acid: This is the active ingredient. It's a naturally occurring molecule in the body that helps break down dietary fat.
- Kybella: This is the brand name for the injectable form of deoxycholic acid approved by the FDA.
In 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration approved deoxycholic acid (branded as Kybella) for use as an injection lipolysis product when used to reduce moderate to severe submental fullness (double chin).
How Kybella Works:
- Kybella is injected into the fat beneath the chin.
- It destroys fat cells.
- Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat.
Important Considerations:
- Kybella is specifically approved for the submental area (under the chin).
- It requires administration by a trained healthcare professional.
- Multiple treatments may be needed to achieve the desired result.