Is Botox safe?
Is Botox botulism?
No. Botox is a naturally occurring protein. Even in high doses, it does not result in botulism.
Does Botox paralyze my muscles?
No. Botox acts on the nerve impulses that create muscle contractions. Depending on the dosage of Botox injected, you may have a very difficult time creating certain expressions; however, your muscles are not paralyzed.
What are the potential risks of Botox?
The greatest risk is when Botox is not injected properly. You may receive limited benefit, or you may experience a condition called ptosis (a dropping of the area injected). It is possible, but unlikely, that you will experience a mild headache following treatment. It is possible, but rare, that you may experience mild flu-like symptoms after your injections.
Can Botox treat headaches?
Botox (made by Allergan) is technically classified as a neurotoxin and has been used in research and off-label by neurologists to treat migraine headaches.
What other uses does Botox have?
Currently Botox has approval to treat medical disorders such as blepharospasm (uncontrolled blinking), cervical dystonia and cerebral palsy. Research is currently examining the benefit of Botox to treat migraine headache, TMJ (tempromandibular joint) disorders and carpal tunnel syndrome. However, these experimental uses should only be administered in controlled medical trials and in appropriate medical research setting.
Is there an age limit for Botox?
Botox for cosmetic purposes should not be administered to anyone under 18 years of age.
Who should not have Botox treatment?
If you are being treated for any neurological disorder, you should first consult your doctor. Some individuals with very lax facial muscles may not be good candidates as the injections can cause ptosis, or sagging, rather than have a positive cosmetic effect.
Is there any other form of botulinum?
Reloxin is the brand name of a botulinum type A that is pending U.S. FDA approval. Botulinum type B, also know as Myobloc is U.S. FDA approved only for the treatment of cervical dystonia. It is not the same as, nor an equivalent substitute for, botulinum type A, or Botox.
Are there cheaper alternatives to Botox?
No. If you are offered a “generic” or “cheaper” solution to Botox (botulinum type A), you should refuse as there are no proven safe or effective less costly alternatives to Botox. There are, however, controlled clinical trials for substances in the process of submitting for U.S. FDA approval, including the brand name Reloxin.
Are there Botox creams?
Topical creams can only affect the dermis, or the upper portion of your skin. Botox is injected into your muscle layer. While topical creams may improve the surface appearance of your skin, the wrinkles treated by Botox originate much deeper, from the contractions of your facial muscles.
I’ve been invited to a Botox party. Is this safe?
No. Botox, like any medical treatment, should never be administered in a social setting, whether alcohol is served or not.
My salon/spa/cosmetic counter/neighbor offers Botox. Is this safe?
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