Novabel®, a dermal shaper harvested from marine algae extract, has been taken off of the market by Merz Pharmaceuticals. The decision came after numerous patients reported temporary bruising, swelling and lumps, particularly around the under eye area.Novabel® is currently marketed as a safe and virtually pain-free treatment with minimal side effects and results that last up to twelve months. However, due to these latest patient complaints, Merz has decided to cease production on Novabel® until they are able to re-release the product without any kinks. Biocompatibles’ CellMed branch, the developers of Novabel®, are currently working with Merz to address the problem.
"I am confident that our CellMed team will have a safe and effective technique for sensitive areas ready for evaluation in the next few weeks," said Biocompatibles’ chief executive Crispin Simon.
Novabel® differs from traditional dermal fillers like Restylane® and Juvederm® as it is not made of hyaluronic acid. Traditional fillers are likely to have more pronounced side effects in sensitive areas than Novabel®. Until the latest issues are resolved, Merz will suspend the product until they can accurately market Novabel® for it’s minimal side effects.
Novabel® was released in the U.K. in February of this year and is not yet FDA approved. With promising results expected from Novabel®, we hope that Merz will have it back on the market soon.
