Botox
Botox - FCIC
Botox™
Botox™ is used to improve the look of mild to severe frown lines for a short
time.
What is Botox™?
- Botox™ comes from a kind of bacteria. The bacteria can make you very sick.
But doctors have found that the chemical in Botox™ can also help treat some
health problems. They have been using it safely for many years.
How does Botox™ work?
- Some wrinkles are caused when a muscle contracts (tightens up). Botox™ is
injected through the skin into the muscle with a needle. The Botox™ keeps the
muscle from contracting. When the muscle can't contract, the wrinkle doesn't
show as much.
You mean you can't move your muscles?
- A trained doctor will inject small amounts of Botox™ into a small part of
the muscle. Only that muscle can't move.
What happens over the long term?
- The action of Botox™ lessens with time. So the muscle returns to normal
within a few months. You begin to see the wrinkle again.
How was this found?
- Botox™ was approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) over 10
years ago to treat certain diseases of the eye muscle. Doctors noticed that
some wrinkles around the eyes looked better, too. The company that makes Botox™
tested it. They showed the FDA that Botox™ worked and was safe for treating
certain types of wrinkles.
Are there any side effects? Yes.
- Side effects may include:
- Droopy eyelids, which can last for a few weeks
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache and nausea (upset stomach)
(REMEMBER: Botox™ is a drug, not a cosmetic.)
Are Botox Parties Safe?
Botox™ is approved for selling in single-use tubes. Each tube is made to be
used only once and only for one patient. Using the tube more than once can
spread germs. Treating more than one person with one tube goes against the
product directions. Also, Botox™ needs to be used within 4 hours after the
tube is opened.
What should I do if I want to try Botox™?
- Make sure you get treatment in a doctor's office or hospital. Make sure
your doctor is trained and "takes time to care."
Thinking about Botox?
- Be sure that a skilled doctor does the treatment.
- Make sure the doctor is trained in cosmetic skin surgery of the face.
- Ask about the benefits and risks of the treatment.
- Choose a medical setting where everything is kept clean and germ-free.
- Emergency equipment should be on hand in case of a problem.
- Do not drink alcohol and do not lie down for several hours after the
treatment.
To learn more:
American Academy of Dermatology Phone: 1-888-462-3376
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Phone: 1-800-441-2737
FDA Talk Paper: "FDA Approves Botox To Treat Frown Lines"
www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/2002/ANS01147.html
FDA Consumer article: "Botox Cosmetic: A Look at Looking Good"
www.fda.gov/fdac/features/2002/402_botox.html
October 2003
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