Double chins are clinically defined by accumulation of subcutaneous fat in the submental area. The result? A double chin that impacts perceptions of facial attractiveness. In "A Phase I Safety and Pharmacokinetic Study of ATX-101: Injectable, Synthetic Deoxycholic Acid for Submental Contouring," Patricia Walker MD PhD, Jere Fellmann PhD, and Paul F. Lizzul MD PhD MBA MPH explain how ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid [DCA] injection) has the potential to provide a less invasive alternative for submental fat reduction and contouring. Both in vivo and in vitro studies show that, when injected into submental subcutaneous fat tissue, ATX-101 results in the targeted destruction of fat cells. The data support favorable safety and efficacy observations. Adverse events were bruising and swelling associated with the treatment area that are mild or moderate in severity. FDA approval for use of ATX-101 above the chest is expected in May 2015.
