Deoxycholic Acid
Deoxycholic acid is an injectable medication that destroys fat cells when administered into subcutaneous tissue. It is primarily used for aesthetic reduction of moderate to severe submental fat (fat beneath the chin), commonly known as a double chin. The treatment involves multiple injections and is performed by qualified healthcare providers.
Deoxycholic acid is an injectable treatment that permanently destroys fat cells under the chin to improve chin profile appearance.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 3194
- Generic
- Deoxycholic Acid
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Kybella
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Deoxycholic acid is FDA-approved for improving the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin (submental fat/double chin) in adults. It is used for cosmetic purposes when diet and exercise have not adequately addressed chin fullness.
When injected into subcutaneous fat, deoxycholic acid disrupts fat cell (adipocyte) membranes, causing them to rupture and die. The destroyed fat cells are then metabolized and cleared by the body over several weeks. Once eliminated, these fat cells cannot store or accumulate fat again.
Treatment requires multiple injection sessions (typically 2-4, up to 6) spaced at least one month apart. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, and redness at the injection site. It should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals and is not recommended for use in areas other than under the chin. Patients with infection near the injection site should not receive treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy