Botox

What is Botox? Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin that is injected directly into targeted muscles to paralyze or weaken them temporarily. These injections are popularly used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and treat various cosmetic and medical conditions, including neck spasms, excessive sweating, chronic migraines, and overactive bladder. The treatment is generally safe when administered by licensed healthcare providers, following U.S. FDA-approved medical control standards.

How does Botox work?

Botox works by blocking chemical signals from nerves that cause muscles to contract. This effect lasts for a few months, after which the muscles gradually return to their normal function, and retreatment is necessary to maintain the results.

What are the clinical applications of Botox?

Botox has a range of clinical applications both in cosmetic and medical fields and are commonly used for the following purposes:

 

  • Smoothing facial wrinkles and fine lines
  • Altering or enhancing facial features
  • Treating chronic migraine
  • Managing muscle spasticity 
  • Addressing overactive bladder or urinary incontinence
  • Treating hyperhidrosis
  • Correcting eye conditions such as strabismus and blepharospasm
  • Relieving or reducing symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders 
  • Reducing symptoms of Raynaud’s disease

Risks and Side Effects

Botox injections are considered safe when administered by a skilled and licensed healthcare professional. However, there are risks of side effects, such as pain at the injection site and headache. More severe complications like muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, uneven results, and trouble breathing can occur but are rare. 

 

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/botox/about/pac-20384658