The Benefits and Dangers of Botox
Botox and other related drugs are used several million times yearly by cosmetic surgeons to smooth out facial skin and produce a more youthful appearance. The injections involve a simple procedure and can be performed in a medical office setting. The procedure and the drug are considered to be quite safe, yet there are numerous potential side effects that can be harmful and a few that can be very serious.
Botox is a brand name of diluted botulinum toxin which is a potentially dangerous bacterium that can be fatal in large doses. Cosmetic surgeons use Botox and related brands such as Myobloc and Dysport to treat facial skin wrinkles and signs of premature aging. Facial skin wrinkles are often caused by overactive muscles. Botox, when injected into the facial muscles, causes the muscles to relax and weaken. The facial skin smoothes out which produces a more pleasant appearance. However, the effect is temporary, typically lasting 4 to 6 months. Injections must be repeated several times per year to maintain the effect. The typical cost per injection is $350 to $500.
In addition to the cosmetic benefits, Botox has also been found to be effective in some people to combat migraine headaches, excessive sweating, and various muscular spasms. Botox was approved by the FDA for cosmetic uses in 2002. Some other uses for Botox, though not approved, include treatment of Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis.
The most common minor side effects are headaches and a flu-like syndrome. A brief study revealed headaches occurring about 13.3% of the time, nausea in 3.0% of cases and flu symptoms in 2.0% of patients. Also, eyelid drooping, caused by an injection too close to the eyelid, was a complaint 3.2% of the time. While most minor side effects wore off in 7 to 10 days, the eyelid drooping could last up to 6 weeks before the eye returned to normal. Double vision was also an associated side effect. Additionally, respiratory and swallowing problems occurred in about 3.5% of cases. Since the botulinum toxin is an active bacterium, a large dosage can migrate to other muscles such as the diaphragm, causing it to weaken and resulting in breathing problems. Again, these effects are temporary and generally wear off in a week or two.
However, the respiratory complications from the drug can lead to much more serious consequences. A watchdog group called Public Citizen analyzed data that was voluntarily reported by the drug makers to the FDA. The analysis of the FDA data showed that between 1997 and 2007 there were 180 reported severe cases resulting from injections. Hospitalization was required in 87 cases and 16 cases resulted in death. Since the data came from voluntary reports the estimate is that the data may represent only 10% of all cases.
The FDA has not recommended against the use of Botox for cosmetic purposes because when it is administered by trained professionals the incidence of moderate and severe side effects is low. Here is some good and wise advice from The American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Check credentials of the physician. Physicians should be credited by the ABPS or other appropriate society and have experience with facial cosmetic surgery.
The physician should require a complete exam and evaluation with complete medical history.
Be as informed as possible. Talk to friends and family. The physician should explain all potential risks and benefits.
Make sober decisions. Alcohol that is sometimes served at Botox parties can influence choices. Peer pressure, also present at Botox parties, can also influence choices.
All equipment used for injections should be sterile and any procedure should be performed in a clean setting with medical personnel and safety equipment available.
The use of Botox and the other related drugs will continue to be an inexpensive and effective choice for many people. Botox clients will have to consider the benefits and the risks involved and make an informed choice.
