Botulinum toxin treatment is generally considered safe, effective and largely free of serious side effects.
Botox
is injected in small, controlled amounts, and the FDA recommends not exceeding a total of 360 units in a 3-month period. To avoid any potential side effects, it is important to consult a doctor who is highly experienced in administering Botox treatments for specific conditions. Botox was first approved by the FDA to treat medical conditions such as muscle spasms, excessive sweating in the armpits, and tics in the eyelids.It was the first drug to use botulinum toxin, which can cause botulism, a rare but serious food poisoning that affects the body's nervous system. OnabotulinumtoxinA injections are approved by the FDA to temporarily treat frown lines, crow's feet and forehead lines from moderate to severe, according to the Botox Cosmetic website. Research has shown that Botox injections are safe when given in small doses and by an experienced professional. In addition to wrinkles, Botox can be used to treat migraines, incontinence, and even cervical dystonia (neck and shoulder spasms).
For those with debilitating ailments such as chronic migraines, the relief provided by Botox can be life-changing. The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, sometimes referred to as Botox by patients, is an injectable that temporarily reduces or eliminates fine lines and facial wrinkles. It is important to consult a doctor who specializes in your condition and has experience administering Botox treatments. Botox is used to treat neck spasms, excessive sweating, overactive bladder, lazy eye, and to prevent chronic migraines.
However, a recent study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison has raised questions about how Botox works in the body. Botox injections block certain chemical signals from the nerves, mostly signals that cause muscles to contract. Since this study was completed a few years ago, procedures have become even safer for potential Botox users. Some doctors have stopped using Botox altogether; however, some researchers speculate that cosmetic applications may carry fewer risks than therapeutic Botox injections because the doses are usually much smaller.
Ultimately, it is important to consult with a doctor who is experienced in administering Botox treatments for your specific condition.
