Botox Uses Purified Botulism Toxin to Limit Muscle Movements

Botox relies on a purified form of the neurotoxin Botulinum Toxin A, a form of botulism, which is a rare but potentially deadly illness that causes paralysis. By restricting the movement of muscles in the face, forehead and other body parts, Botox can reduce the appearance of wrinkles such as laugh lines and Crow’s feet around the mouth and eyes.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox uses a purified form of a neurotoxin to paralyze nerves so muscles cannot contract. The neurotoxin enters nerve cells and stops the release of acetylcholine, a chemical which stimulates the contraction of muscles.

By stopping the movement of muscles in the face, forehead and other parts of the body, Botox can decrease the appearance of unsightly wrinkles and creases in the skin. Botox is injected with a tiny needle directly into the patient’s skin.

Can I Be Injured by Botox?

While Botox is generally safe and most often results in few adverse effects, injuries and deaths from Botox treatments have been reported. Some patients have reported suffering permanent paralysis of the face after Botox injections. Many injuries and dozens of patient deaths have been reported when Botox spread from the injection site and reached a patient’s lungs, interfering with breathing.

Botox Injury Legal Advice is Available

Patients who have been injured by receiving Botox injections may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages. At Mark & Associates, P.C., our attorneys are experienced in handling Botox injury cases. Contact Mark & Associates, P.C., 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.

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.