Kybella is a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid, a molecule that occurs naturally in the body to aid in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Kybella (deoxycholic acid), an injectable cytolytic drug indicated to improve the appearance of fullness associated with submental fat, commonly called "double chin." It is the first and only approved non-surgical treatment for this condition.
Patient Information
Read this Patient Information before you start treatment. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your condition or your medical care.
What is Kybella?
Kybella is a prescription medicine used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin (submental fat), also called "double chin."
It is not known if this medicine is safe and effective in children less than 18 years of age.
It is not known if it is safe and effective for use outside of the submental area.
Who should not receive Kybella?
You should not receive this medicine if you have an infection in the treatment area.
Before receiving treatment, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
- have had or plan to have surgery on your face, neck, or chin
- have had cosmetic treatments on your face, neck, or chin
- have had or have medical conditions in or near the neck area
- have had or have trouble swallowing
- have bleeding problems
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Kybella will harm your unborn baby.
- are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Kybella passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you intend to receive treatment.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take a medicine that prevents the clotting of your blood (antiplatelet or anticoagulant medicine).
How will I receive Kybella?
- Kybella is injected into the fat under your chin (up to 50 injections under your skin) by your healthcare provider.
- The injections will be given at least one month apart. You and your healthcare provider will decide how many treatments you need.
Kybella side effects
Kybella can cause serious side effects, including:
- Nerve injury in the jaw that can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness
- Trouble swallowing
The most common side effects include: swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, and areas of hardness in the treatment area.
This is not a complete list of all the possible side effects. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
General information
This leaflet summarizes the most important information about Kybella. If you would like more information, talk to your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in Kybella?
Active ingredient: deoxycholic acid
Inactive ingredients: benzyl alcohol, dibasic sodium phosphate, hydrochloric acid, sodium chloride, sodium hydroxide and water for injection, USP.
