Hydrelle, the first hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler approved by the FDA that contains the anesthestic lidocaine, has been released. The drug, manufactured by Anika Therapeutics and distributed in the United States by Coapt Systems Inc, is injected into the mid-to-deep dermis for the correction of moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, and is reportedly a cheaper alternative to traditional fillers, such as Allergan’s Juvederm and Medicis Pharmaceutical’s Restylane.

According to the firm, patients require about 50% of typical injection volumes, meaning that fewer injections are needed to fully correct facial wrinkles. In addition, Hydrelle is marketed to produce results that are longer lasting. Side effects include swelling, redness, bumps, bruising and tenderness which might be experienced by some patients.

[Source: Coapt Systems/Plasmetic]