Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Sodium Deoxycholate

Sodium deoxycholate is a bile acid that disrupts cell membranes and causes localized adipocyte destruction when injected subcutaneously.

Sodium deoxycholate is a bile acid that disrupts cell membranes and causes localized adipocyte destruction when injected subcutaneously. Used for Submental fat reduction (double chin), Localized adiposity in other body areas.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Sodium deoxycholate works by solubilizing the cell membrane of adipocytes, leading to cell lysis and permanent destruction of fat cells in the treated area. When injected into subcutaneous fat deposits, it causes a localized inflammatory response that results in apoptosis of adipocytes. The destroyed fat is then cleared by the body's natural inflammatory and metabolic processes.

Approved indications

• Submental fat reduction (double chin)
• Localized adiposity in other body areas

Common side effects

• Swelling and edema at injection site
• Bruising
• Pain and tenderness
• Redness and erythema
• Numbness or paresthesia
• Nodules or induration

Key clinical trials

• Intralesional Ronkyla Plus Injection for the Treatment of Superficial Lipoma (PHASE1)
• Pancreatic Enzymes and Bile Acids in Acutely Ill Severely Malnourished Children (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• BSEP Function Rescue During Childhood Inhereditary Cholestatic Diseases (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• Examination of the Metabolic Effects of Direct Bile Salt Delivery to the Ileum in Humans (PHASE1)
• Long Term Follow-up Study on Safety and Maintenance of Efficacy of ATX-101 (PHASE2)
• Kybella With Triamcinolone (PHASE4)
• Phase 2 Study to Evaluate LUM001 in Combination With Ursodeoxycholic Acid in Patients With Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PHASE2)
• Long-term 24-month Follow-up Study on Safety and Maintenance of Efficacy of ATX-101 (Sodium Deoxycholate Injection)

Primary sources

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