Popular Wrinkle-Reducer BOTOX® Causes Injuries, Deaths

On July 9, 2008, Mark & Associates, P.C. and McGinnis, Lochridge, Kilgore, L.L.P., filed a civil lawsuit against Allergan Inc., the maker of the wrinkle-busting drug Botox, alleging the company failed to disclose serious risks of injury associated with the drug and promoted unapproved uses.

The suit was filed on behalf of 15 plaintiffs from across the country, some of whom died after receiving Botox treatments for treatment of cerebral palsy and other conditions.

Botox, the popular cosmetic drug used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and other imperfections, is to blame for many serious injuries and deaths reported each year. While it is commonly thought of as merely a cosmetic product that offers a quick, easy, and relatively painless way to shave years off of your appearance, Botox injections are also used for treating symptoms of cerebral palsy, muscle spasms, excessive sweating, and other conditions for which the Food and Drug Administration has not approved. These unapproved uses of Botox account for many of the patient deaths and injuries reported each year.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by Botox injections, you may have legal rights to be financially compensated for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. The personal injury attorneys at Mark & Associates, P.C., are experienced in handling Botox injury cases and will fight for the best possible legal outcome in your case. Please contact Mark & Associates, P.C. today for a free consultation about your potential case. Call 1-866-50-RIGHTS (1-866-507-4448) or fill out the form at the left.

What is Botox?

Botox is a purified and diluted form of botulism, a dangerous and potentially deadly illness that causes muscle paralysis. Botulism is caused by a neurotoxin, most commonly botulinum toxin, which is produced in seven different forms. One of those forms, Botulinum Toxin A, is the active ingredient in Botox.

FDA Warns Botox Users

In February 2008, the Food and Drug Administration issued a public health warning to consumers about reports of deaths, breathing problems, and other adverse reactions caused by Botox. Some of the deaths and injuries involved unapproved uses of Botox in patients battling cerebral palsy patients and severe muscle spasms.

Cosmetic Uses

Botox is most commonly administered in elective, cosmetic procedures for patients hoping to improve their appearance by decreasing facial wrinkles and skin creases. Botox may be injected directly into the skin around the eyes, noses, and mouths of patients with laugh lines, Crow’s feet, and other facial imperfections they want to minimize.

Cerebral Palsy and Other Off-Label Uses

While Botox is best known as a cosmetic wrinkle reducer, it is also is frequently used by doctors to treat symptoms of cerebral palsy, muscle spasms, excessive sweating and other conditions. These “off-label uses” of the product have not been approved by the FDA and represent a large portion of the Botox-related injuries and deaths reported each year.

Botox Injuries

Since Botox is a form of botulism, a neurotoxin which causes paralysis, the drug works by deadening muscles, preventing repetitive movements, and in the process reducing wrinkles. Unfortunately, the drug has shown a tendency to migrate inside the body, which can cause problems breathing and swallowing as well as the loss of other bodily functions.