VIDEO – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xU4YohR5n5U&t=2s
You heard it here first! The newest cellulite treatment has come to market in the US and its name is QWO. You may know of many cellulite treatments, but QWO is the world’s first and only FDA approved injection to improve the appearance of cellulite.
What is QWO?
The enzymes in QWO are called collagenase, which are believed to release fibrous bands, redistribute fat cells, and stimulate the growth of new collagen. The production of these 3 things, in turn is meant to break down the collagen that produces cellulite.
Ware the legal risks of QWO?
Because QWO is a newer treatment, there are risks that come along with that. All of the side effects of QWO are not known, and most of the clinical trials are still in-process. However, QWO has been studied by many qualified doctors who have performed a cumulative of over a thousand treatments. As far as we know the treatment seems to be very safe with a low rate of adverse events like other cosmetic injectable treatments.
If QWO is a treatment you are considering bringing into your practice we suggest following the results of the many clinical trials and keeping up with the FDA regarding any serious side effects, developing pre and post treatments instructions, questionnaires, consents, and adding it to your malpractice coverage.
What is Cellulite?
Cellulite is a fat deposit beneath the skin that is trapped by fibrous septae, which leads to a less aesthetic overall contour of the skin. It is a natural part of a woman’s body, and occurs in 9 out of 10 women.
What can a patient expect from QWO?
The injection of QWO only takes about 10 minutes and is administered in the buttocks. The injection of QWO is a clear, odorless water-like mixture that is injected through tiny needles into the dimples responsible for creating the appearance of cellulite.
A maximum of 3 treatments are needed, spaced approximately 3 weeks apart. Visible results appear in 10 weeks after the initial treatment.
How much does it cost?
$200 – 4ml vial which is enough for 12 injections
$250 – 8ml vial which is enough for 24 injections
Patients may receive up to 12 injections per buttock, for a maximum of 24 injections for both buttocks. The vial must be reconstituted before use and can be stored reconstituted for up to 3 days.
Which Vendor Provides QWO?
Endo Pharmaceuticals based out of the United States holds the licensing rights for QWO.
What are the side effects?
According to Endo Pharmaceuticals, side effects include:
- Injection site bruising
- Pain
- Areas of hardness
- Itching
- Redness
- Discoloration
- Swelling and warmth in the treatment area
More serious side effects: Allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Safety Information
According to Endo Pharmaceuticals, adverse events associated with QWO injection were mild to moderate and resolved within 2-3 weeks without treatment. The most common side effect was bruising. No additional safety concerns were identified with six months of follow-up.