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Deoxycholic Acid Injection

What is this medication?

DEOXYCHOLIC ACID (dee oxy KOE lik AS id) decreases the appearance of fat below the chin (double chin). It works by breaking down fat cells.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Kybella

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bleeding disorder
  • Infection at injection site
  • Having or recent surgery, skin procedure, or treatment for the face, neck, or chin
  • Neck conditions
  • Trouble swallowing
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to deoxycholic acid, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Aspirin and aspirin-like medications
  • Medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as apixaban, clopidogrel, dabigatran, enoxaparin, ticlopidine, warfarin

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This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

If you are going to need surgery or a procedure on your face, neck, or chin, tell you care team that you are taking this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Numbness or weakness of the face, uneven smile
  • Pain or trouble swallowing
  • Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain at the injection site

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Hair loss at the injection site
  • Numbness, decrease in sense of touch or sensation at the injection site
  • Pain, redness, irritation, or bruising at the injection site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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