Lipodissolve is injected into the middle layers of the skin to reduce fat in small areas on the body. A relatively new modality, Lipodissolve is not yet approved by the FDA and is currently undergoing trials to determine its efficacy. As with many new medical products, there are doctors currently using Lipodissolve who are participating in clinical trials, gaining experience and documenting their results and complications.
Chemical Composition and Side Effects
The chemical makeup of Lipodissolve varies with each provider but generally includes phosphatidylcholine which is found in soy lecithin and is otherwise used as a dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol. Other components can include vitamins, plant extracts, enzymes, and anti-inflammatory agents. Lipodissolve reduces small areas of subcutaneous fat and retracts overlying skin. Side effects of Lipodissolve can include inflammation and pain at the injection site, infection, and allergic reaction. These reactions are generally mild and can be treated by the administering physician.
Off Label Uses
The practice of mesotherapy, or the injecting of substances into the subcutaneous layer of skin in order to produce therapeutic effects has existed since the fifties. Controversy involving lipodissolve treatments arose when clinics started to spring up and quickly gained popularity. Doubt about the effectiveness of the treatments arose almost immediately when testimonials offered by some recipients were discovered to be fabricated. Promised results did not materialize for some and customers filed lawsuits. Another sticky situation developed when a group of cosmetic surgeons, possibly threatened by the thought of lost revenues, attempted to get the product banned in Kansas. Judges ruled that the case was without merit.
Recommended Uses Of Lipodissolve
Controversy continues to rage about the rise of clinics using these injections and the validity of reports of results experienced by the consumer. The unbiased conclusion by medical professionals is that lipodissolve is appropriate for reducing small areas of fat such as the reduction of fat pads in the lower eyelids, or in adjunct therapy post lipoplasty. Other appropriate uses could include the reduction of cellulite, smoothing of fat deposits in the face, arms, hips, and abdomen, especially when traditional lipoplasty is not indicated. Lipodissolve should not be considered as appropriate therapy for weight reduction, the treatment of obesity, or as an alternative to diet and exercise.
Greed Won't Wait
The promise of lipodissolve to become a suitable replacement or adjunct to various forms of lipoplasty (liposuction and other surgical modalities) will motivate researchers and medical providers to refine their formulas and techniques of administration to produce the maximum lipolytic effect with the fewest side-effects. Unable to wait for good scientific research and appropriate studies to validate and refine its use, groups motivated by money will continue to inject lipodissolve and expose their willing customers to potential risk of injury or treatment failure. The patients who will suffer the most are the ones who, because of inadequate screening will receive these injections for reasons other than for which the drug was intended, while being misguided into seeking a cure for their obesity and expecting large-scale weight reduction. Getting FDA approval for any drug or treatment is a long, labor-intensive process, including the development of stringent labeling and usage restrictions.
The reward to recipients is a more effective therapy with fewer risks and undesirable side-effects. As of January 2008, the FDA is asserting stronger oversight of the trials involving lipodissolve and new formulations and procedures are evolving.
