Botox
The FDA released a warning on February 8, 2008 about adverse reactions, including respiratory failure and death, caused by Botox injections. The reactions are similar to symptoms of botulism, which include difficulty swallowing, weakness and breathing problems.
What are some important things I should know about Botox?
Botox is used for cosmetic purposes as well as to treat conditions such as spasticity caused by cerebral palsy in children. Botox is made from the same toxin that causes botulism, but when used in small doses, it can treat some health conditions.
Botox is injected into the area of concern and paralyzes specific muscles and nerves. The injection lasts for a few months, and then it wears off and patients must seek treatment again.
Who is Botox for?
Botox is for people who want to make cosmetic changes to their appearance, such as remove facial wrinkles, stop underarm perspiration, and achieve symmetry between eyes or facial features.
Botox is also used for children who suffer spasticity in their limbs associated with cerebral palsy, but this use is not approved by the FDA, and it is these patients who can experience the worst side effects and adverse reactions from Botox.
What side effects can Botox cause?
Botox can cause respiratory failure and death. The symptoms are similar to botulism, and include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
Botox is very dangerous to unborn or nursing babies, so pregnant and breast feeding women should not use Botox.
When should I contact my doctor?
Patients should contact their doctors immediately if they have difficulty breathing or experience weakness. Although the FDA is not advising health care professionals to stop Botox treatments, the FDA does stress that using Botox to treat spasticity is not approved and not recommended. Many of the adverse reactions are also caused by excessive amounts of Botox, so talk to your doctor about avoiding overdosing.
Patients should contact a personal injury attorney immediately if they are injured because of Botox.
Tags: botox, botox injection, botulism, cosmetic malpractice, cosmetic surgery, cosmetics, death, personal injury, perspiration, plastic surgery, wrinkles