What Is Botox?
Botox is a neurotoxic protein which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
Clostridium botulinum is an organism found in the natural environment where it is largely inactive and non-toxic. This toxin is produced by the microbe that causes botulism, a type of food poisoning.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox injections block certain chemical signals from nerves, mostly signals that cause muscles to contract. The most common use of these injections is to temporarily relax the facial muscles that underlie and cause wrinkles, such as:
- Frown lines between the eyebrows
- Crow's-feet, the lines that fan out from the corners of the eyes
- Forehead furrows
When injected in small amounts, Botox can weaken a muscle for up to 4 months.
Is This Injectable Approved?
Yes, Botox was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic use in April 2002. It has been approved for the treatment of several medical conditions since 1989.
Is There Any Down Time After The Treatment?
Within a few hours to a couple of days after the Botox is injected into the affected muscle(s), the spasms or contractions are reduced or eliminated altogether.
Is There Any Down Time After The Treatment?
Within a few hours to a couple of days after the Botox is injected into the affected muscle(s), the spasms or contractions are reduced or eliminated altogether.
Are Multiple Treatments Needed?
A single Botox treatment can last anywhere from 3-8 months. It is at your discretion as to whether you are satisfied with the results from your first treatment.
What Are The Risks And Side Effects?
Botox should not be used in pregnant or lactating women, or by people who have had a previous allergic reaction to the drug or any of its ingredients. Some patients have experienced headaches, mild nausea, mild pain at the site of the injection, temporary weakness/paralysis of the area close to the site of injection, blurred vision, double vision, fatigue, rashes, wheezing and swelling.
Is This Injectable Known By Another Name?
Botulinum Toxin is the official name but is also known as Botox, Botox Cosmetic, Myobloc, Xeomin and Dysport. It is important to know that these injectables are not compatible and should never be mixed.
Can Botox Be Used To Treat Other Medical Conditions?
Yes, Botox can also be used to treat such problems as repetitive neck spasms (cervical dystonia), excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), overactive bladder and lazy eye. Botox injections may also help prevent chronic migraines in some people.
