Botox vs. Jeuveau: Uses, Side Effects, Costs, and More

Botox Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is one of the most recognizable wrinkle-smoothing treatments available. Since its arrival on the cosmetics market in 2002, the name “Botox” has become so well known that it’s used almost interchangeably with the medication class itself. But in recent years, more brands of botulinum toxin injections have popped up. Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA) is one available option.

Curious about how Jeuveau compares with Botox? We’ve got you covered with this overview of similarities and differences between Jeuveau versus Botox.

1. Jeuveau and Botox work the same way

Jeuveau and Botox Cosmetic are injectable medications made from botulinum toxin. Botox contains onabotulinumtoxinA, while Jeuveau consists of prabotulinumtoxinA.

While these formulations are different, they work in the same way to combat wrinkles. The active ingredients in Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau block nerves where they’re injected, which temporarily paralyzes the muscles in your face at the injection site. This helps smooth existing wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming.

Good to know: The botulinum toxin in Botox and Jeuveau is the same toxin that causes botulism. This is a rare but dangerous infection that affects your nerves and muscles. But when purified and injected in small doses to targeted areas of the body, this toxin is considered safe and has beneficial cosmetic and medical uses.

2. Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau are approved for different uses

Both Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau are FDA approved for moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows in adults (ages 18 and older).

Botox Cosmetic has more uses. It’s also approved to treat adults with moderate-to-severe:

• Crow’s feet lines

• Forehead lines

• Platysma bands (vertical lines that run from your chin to your collarbone)

Good to know: The medical version of Botox is approved to treat a variety of health conditions. Chronic migraines, overactive bladder, and excessive sweating are a few examples. Jeuveau is approved only for cosmetic purposes and can’t treat these medical conditions.

3. Jeuveau and Botox Cosmetic offer similar wrinkle reduction

Studies that compare Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau show that these treatments seem to offer a similar reduction of frown lines between the eyebrows.

Most people notice a difference in their appearance within 3 to 5 days after getting Botox Cosmetic or Jeuveau injections. But it typically takes about 7 to 10 days to see the full benefits. These timelines also seem consistent between the two medications.

For safety reasons, you shouldn’t receive either medication more than once every 3 months.

4. Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau have similar risks and side effects to consider

When given properly, Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau injections are generally well-tolerated with few side effects. Some people may experience pain, swelling, or bruising near the injection site. Headaches, dry skin, and dry eyes are also possible.

Less common side effects include droopy eyelids or eyebrows, crossed eyes, or facial asymmetry or paralysis. These issues are often associated with improper injection technique.

Very rarely, both Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau injections can spread beyond the area where they’re injected. This can cause serious side effects, such as vision problems or difficulty swallowing or breathing. If you experience any side effects that feel serious or life-threatening after an injection, call 911 or go to the nearest ER right away.

Choosing between Botox and Jeuveau

Both products are considered safe and effective by the FDA. Often, the choice between them will come down to your anatomy and treatment goals, since they’re approved for different areas of the face. The clinic where you’re receiving injections may also prefer one product over another.

Cost can also play a role in choosing between Botox and Jeuveau — more on that next.

How to save on Botox and Jeuveau

The list prices of Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau are similar. Some data shows that Botox typically costs $10 to $15 per unit. Jeuveau’s list price may be as low as $8 per unit.

However, it’s hard to directly compare the costs of Botox Cosmetic and Jeuveau injections. Specific costs vary for everyone. It depends on which areas of your face you want to target, how much medication is administered at one time, and the frequency of your injections.

Costs can also vary by clinic. But be aware that too-good-to-be-true pricing may be a red flag. Be sure to check for proper accreditation to ensure that Botox and Jeuveau are administered by licensed professionals.

You may be eligible to save $40 on Jeuveau every 3 months through the manufacturer’s rewards program. Botox’s manufacturer also offers a rewards program you can use to save on the cost of your treatment.

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Written by:

Connie Zheng, PharmD

Connie Zheng, PharmD, is a drug information pharmacist at GoodRx and a licensed pharmacist in California. She has over 6 years of experience working in independent pharmacies.

Written by:

Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh, PACS

Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, is a licensed pharmacist in Florida. She has worked in the pharmacy industry for more than 15 years and is currently a medical writer.

Reviewed by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

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