Botox: What You Need to Know

Botox is a trademark for a preparation of botulinum toxin type A. It is a neurotoxin used as a beauty aid to make lines or wrinkles between the eyebrows look better. The results are short-term, lasting for about four months.

Botox comes from Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous bacteria. Studies have shown that a component of Botox can help treat other problems. It has been used safely for many years for treating certain kinds of wrinkles.

Botox has been approved by the Federal Drug Administration for over 10 years to treat certain problems with the eye muscle and to improve the look of wrinkles around the eyes. Wrinkles are usually caused when muscles tighten. Botox is injected into the skin down into the muscle. This bacteria strain keeps the muscle from tightening and causing the wrinkle to show. This does not mean that you can't move your muscles. A physician will use a very small amount of Botox to inject into the muscle. Only the treated muscle won't move.

Botox works for about 4 months. After the muscle returns to normal, the wrinkle will reappear.

There are some side effects for using Botox including: droopy eyelids (lasting for weeks, sometimes), feeling like you have the flu, headache and upset stomach, and a risk of botulism (a poisoning affecting the central nervous system with motor disturbances; visual and oculomotor difficulties, and disturbances of secretion such as dryness of the mouth and pharynx with coughing). Botulism can make it difficult to move extremities and also impairs breathing. This risk is low if Botox is used correctly by a licensed physician.

If you think you may want to try Botox, ask your doctor about the risks and benefits. Your doctor should be trained in the use of Botox. You should get treated in a doctor's office or clinic. Never share tubes of Botox or attend Botox parties. Your doctor should have emergency equipment on hand in case of a mishap. Botox should not be used if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breast feeding. Be sure to tell your doctor about any antibiotics you are taking or if you have any problems with nerves or muscles.

Botox is only safe for treating wrinkles between the eyebrows and for people between the ages of 18 and 65. If you are in a different age bracket, consult with your physician for other alternatives.