Qwo
Qwo (collagenase) is an injection used for moderate-to-severe cellulite treatment in the buttocks of adult women. It's a mix of collagen-specific enzymes that break down collagen, helping to smooth out the dimpled look of cellulite. Your prescriber will inject the medication under your skin during 3 separate treatment visits. Common side effects include bruising, pain, and swelling where the injection was given.
Note: Qwo (collagenase) has been discontinued and is no longer available.
What is Qwo (collagenase)?
What is Qwo (collagenase) used for?
- Moderate-to-severe cellulite in the buttocks of adult women
How Qwo (collagenase) works
Qwo (collagenase) contains a combination of collagen-specific enzymes (collagenases). These enzymes break down collagen, which helps release the tension that causes dimples in the skin. While it’s not fully known how Qwo (collagenase) works, it’s thought to help smooth the skin by stimulating more flexible tissue and spreading out fat cells more evenly.
Drug facts
Side effects of Qwo (collagenase)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Bruising at the injection site (84%)
- Injection site pain (48%)
- Solid lumps at the injection site (33%)
- Itchy skin (15%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Redness at the injection site
- Change in skin color at the injection site
- Swelling around the injection area
- Skin that’s warm to the touch
Qwo (collagenase) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: hives, swollen face, trouble breathing, chest pain, dizziness or fainting
Pros and cons of Qwo (collagenase)
Pros
- No surgery required
- Can make the skin on your buttock look smoother
Cons
- Commonly causes bruising at the injection site
- Full treatment course requires multiple appointments
Pharmacist tips for Qwo (collagenase)
- Make sure you receive all 3 injections of Qwo (collagenase). This helps you get the best results from your treatment.
- You’ll lie flat during your Qwo (collagenase) treatment. You might get multiple injections in each buttock and will need to stay lying down for 5 minutes afterward.
- Bruising is normal after Qwo (collagenase). It typically goes away within 14 days. If bruising lasts longer than 14 days, let your prescriber know.
- Some people can have a serious allergic reaction to Qwo (collagenase). Call your prescriber or 911 right away if you have hives, swelling in your face, trouble breathing, chest pain, or feel dizzy.
- Tell your prescriber about any medications you take while getting Qwo (collagenase). Some medications can interact with Qwo (collagenase) and make you bruise or bleed more easily.
Common questions about Qwo (collagenase)
No. Qwo (collagenase) is no longer available. It was discontinued by the manufacturer in 2022 due to a higher risk of bruising and prolonged skin discoloration.
In clinical studies, some people saw visible results with Qwo (collagenase) for up to 2 years after completing 3 treatment sessions spaced 3 weeks apart. But results can vary from person to person. Always check with your prescriber about what to expect and whether you need alternative treatments.
Qwo (collagenase) is only FDA-approved for use on the buttocks of adult women with moderate-to-severe cellulite. Speak with your prescriber if you have questions about using it on your thighs.
Qwo (collagenase) injections can hurt. In clinical trials, about half of the people reported pain at the injection site. But the pain usually went away within 7 days. The most pain was reported after the first injection, with fewer people having pain after the second and third. If your pain lasts more than 7 days, let your prescriber know.
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Risks and warnings for Qwo (collagenase)
Qwo (collagenase) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Serious allergic reactions
Serious allergic reactions to Qwo (collagenase) can happen. These might include life-threatening problems like anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include hives, swelling of the face, trouble breathing, chest pain, and dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, get medical help right away.
Bruising at the injection site
- Risk factors: Taking medications that raise your risk of bleeding | History of bleeding problems
In clinical trials, most people who got Qwo (collagenase) had bruising at the injection site. If you have a bleeding condition or take medications that raise your risk of bleeding — like antiplatelets or anticoagulants — you might be more likely to bruise. Low-dose aspirin (150 mg or less per day) was allowed in studies, but other blood thinners weren't. Talk to your prescriber if you have bleeding concerns or questions about bruising with this medication.
Qwo (collagenase) dosage
Typical dosage for Qwo (collagenase)
The full treatment course includes 3 visits to your prescriber for injections. Each visit will be 3 weeks apart.
On each visit, your prescriber might inject up to 12 times in each buttock. The dose is a total of 0.84 mg per buttock.
Qwo (collagenase) contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Qwo (collagenase) will not be safe for you to take.
- Infection at the injection site