• Botox is a drug that is made from a highly purified form of botulinum toxin, which is the same toxin found in the type of food poisoning botulism. Botox is often injected in small doses for cosmetic reasons to eliminate or reduce wrinkles. Botox works by weakening muscles and blocking nerves.eMedicine: Botox Injections

• Fast Facts

  1. Is highly purified botulinum toxin
  2. Most commonly used for wrinkle elimination
  3. Keeps muscles from tightening
  4. Drug, not a cosmetic
  5. Make sure your doctor is trained in usage
  6. Do not use if pregnant
  7. Do not use if breastfeeding
  8. Only approved for ages 18 to 65FDA: Fact Sheet - Botox
  9. No special preparation prior to treatment
  10. After treatment remain upright and avoid alcohol
  11. No hospital stay
  12. Works by paralyzing and blocking certain nerves

• Background

  In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Botox in the 1980s for the use of uncontrolled blinking and lazy eyes.FDA: Botox Cosmetic: A Look at Looking Good (July-August 2002) Botox has been used for years by cosmetic physicians for facial creases and wrinkles. In 2002, the FDA approved Botox for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines.FDA: FDA Approves Botox to Treat Frown Lines (April 15, 2002) Botox will only work for about four months. With repeated use, Botox may last longer as the muscles are trained to relax.

  Researchers are conducting studies for the use of Botox in ailments such as cerebral palsy, migraine headaches and excessive sweating. However, the FDA has never formally approved the use of Botox in these cases.MayoClinic.com: Botox: Is this wrinkle treatment for you?

• Side Effects

  • Pain
  • Tenderness
  • Bruising at the injection site
  • Flu-like feeling
  • Droopy eyelids
  • Headache
  • Nausea

• Disclaimer

  The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before undergoing a Botox regime.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Botulism | Migraine Headaches | Wrinkles | Plastic Surgery | Sweating | Blepharospasm | How to Become a Dermatologist | How to Get Rid of Wrinkles

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