This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

fact-checked

reputable news agency

proofread

Unapproved 'fat-dissolving' injections are leaving patients maimed, FDA warns

Unapproved 'Fat-dissolving' injections are leaving patients maimed, FDA warns

People are being maimed by unauthorized fat-dissolving injections meant to tighten up double chins and dissipate flab along the arms, thighs and stomach, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns.

The shots are supposed to break down and reduce fat deposits in the areas around the injection sites.

But from the unapproved injections are causing scarring, skin deformities, cysts, painful knots, and serious infections, the FDA said in an agency news release.

The unapproved injections are being marketed under like Aqualyx, Lipodissolve, Lipo Lab and Kabelline, the FDA said.

Common ingredients in the injections include phosphatidylcholine (PPC) and sodium deoxycholate (DC). These ingredients have been used alone or together and are sometimes referred to as "PCDC injections."

The FDA has received reports of consumers harmed by injections they received at clinics or med spas from attendants who might not have been properly licensed to give the shots.

The agency also has heard from some consumers who bought the unapproved shots online and injected the drugs themselves.

The FDA has approved only one for dissolving fat, a called Kybella, the agency said.

The drug, which is deozycholic acid, is FDA-approved to treat double chins in adults. Deozycholic acid is a naturally produced by intestinal bacteria to help break down fats during digestion.

The FDA warns that improper or unsafe injection practices can increase the risk of scarring, skin infections and serious complications.

Safe and effective use of a fat-dissolving agent involves calculating the correct number and location of the injections, placing the needles properly, and administering the shots in a safe and sterile manner, the FDA said.

Kybella's label notes that the shots should be administered only by a professional, the agency noted.

People shouldn't buy fat-dissolving products from websites, much less attempt to inject them, the FDA added.

Instead, they should consult their doctor about FDA-approved treatments like Kybella.

Folks who have received these injections and are experiencing side effects should seek medical care. They also should report their case to the FDA's MedWatch program, which helps the agency track medication safety issues.

More information: The American Academy of Dermatology has more about noninvasive fat removal.

Copyright © 2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Citation: Unapproved 'fat-dissolving' injections are leaving patients maimed, FDA warns (2023, December 22) retrieved 28 April 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-12-unapproved-fat-dissolving-patients-maimed-fda.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.

Explore further

Injected Xolair therapy could prevent food allergies in kids

22 shares

Feedback to editors