FDA approved in December of 2000 for the treatment of cervical dystonia and to reduce the severity of abnormal head position and neck pain, Myobloc has been successfully used off-label for the treatment of frown lines, crow's feet, forehead wrinkles, and the neck folds since that time. Manufactured by Solstice Neurosciences, Inc., Myobloc works like Botox, or botulinium toxin type A, by relaxing the facial muscles at the site of injection. Myobloc is the only botulinium toxin type B treatment available today.

Most effective for individuals who are looking for immediate results, the difference between Myobloc and Botox, as stated in a 2002 New York Times article, is that Myobloc "works within hours, whereas Botox usually takes several days to take full effect." The article also reports "several doctors said that Myobloc shots and its effects - at the current dosages - did not last as long as those of Botox," which typically last for up to six months.

According to the University of Miami Cosmetic Center, Myobloc "is administered with a tiny needle. After the injection, the muscle is temporarily relaxed, thus, stopping the ability of the muscle to shorten and allowing the wrinkle lines to gradually disappear. The injections are painless in most people, and anesthesia is not necessary. Once the Myobloc has been injected, it takes 48 to 72 hours for the maximum effects to be apparent."

As with any cosmetic treatment, there is a potential for side effects. "The most commonly reported adverse events associated with Myobloc," according to Solstice Neurosciences, Inc., "were dry mouth, dyspepsia, and injection site pain. These adverse events are generally mild to moderate, transient, self-resolving, and more common with higher doses."

Although the price of injections with Myobloc may vary depending upon the size of the area being treated and the severity of the problem among other factors, statistics provided by Shape Magazine estimate the average cost per visit to be $400.