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Consumer Education On Phosphatidylcholine Injections for Spot Fat Removal

Phosphatidylcholine-based (PC) injections have become an increasingly popular means to remove excess fat. While this procedure goes by many names (e.g., Lipostabil®, Lipodissolve, Lipo-zap, Flab-Jab, Mesotherapy, Lipotherapy, Injection Lipolysis), the technique typically involves patients receiving dozens of small 'fat burning' injections of compounded phosphatidylcholine/deoxycholate (PCDC) into fat and connective tissue over several sessions. The desired end result is the gradual removal of localized fat deposits. The PCDC drug is obtained from compounding pharmacies, which traditionally make small quantities of unique drugs for specialized treatments (e.g., special versions of drugs for patients with allergic reactions). Currently, people use PCDC in a variety of areas (chin, abdomen, thighs). However, no well-controlled studies have examined where in the body the drug may or may not work. Numerous businesses have rapidly appeared, advertising their services widely on the web and in local newspapers touting this therapy as a safe and effective means to remove fat.

But...Did You Know?

Phosphatidylcholine-based injections for fat removal have not been approved by the FDA. There has not been a new drug application for phosphatidylcholine-based products for injectable fat removal and no well-controlled studies of safety and efficacy have been performed. Most representations of safety and efficacy that are readily available are based on testimonials from an individual or select patients. While there are some small, published studies, none of these would meet safety and effectiveness requirements needed for this product to be approved by FDA.

Lipotreatmentfacts.org offers a balanced view of the growing trend of injection lipolysis, providing links to information that will help answer the following question:

• Have phosphatidylcholine-based products for injectable fat removal been FDA approved? Have they been approved anywhere?
• Is there any rigorous, scientific evidence that this product is safe and efficacious - that it works?
• What are the potential health risks? What do doctors, specialists and medical societies think about this practice?
• What questions should I ask when considering phophatidylcholine-based injections for fat removal?

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