Botox Cosmetic Side Effects

As effective as Botox Cosmetic may seem, the wonder drug of the rich and famous is not without its downsides. While, this cosmetic drug is FDA approved the results are still out on the long term effects of Botox use. Neurophysiologist caution that the long-term effects of the Botox Cosmetic on the brain, nervous system, and muscles are as of yet unknown.

Botox, as many of us know, is a derivative of the deadly botulism toxin. While, the injections consist of minuscule amounts of the actually toxin, dangers can still occur. Botulism can cause fatal muscular paralysis in its natural form and should be treated with care. While botulism toxin is deadly there has never been a death linked to Botox used for cosmetic purposes.

Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic

The British Medical Journal warned: "Robust evidence for the action of botulinium toxin (BOTOX) on sensory neurons is lacking." Meaning we still do not know what can happen from self inflicted prolonged facial paralysis. The Journal also noted: "Animal experiments have shown that botulinium toxin affects the transmission of afferent nerves," and that the toxin "has been shown to play a part in inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters." This is also exactly what causes Botox to be so effective. Botox Cosmetic uses this side effect of botulism to isolate areas for selected muscle impairment.

A 2001 study, found 23% of patients seeking Botox treatment at a dermatology clinic had body dysmorphic disorder, and that psychotherapy was considered the more appropriate treatment for them than facial injections. However since systemic side effects are extremely rare with Botox, most administering physicians are willing to over look this.

If Botox side effects occur, they're usually temporary starting within the first week of injection, but may persist for several months. Typical side effects depend on where Botox Cosmetic is injected. For patients with frown lines, the most common Botox related side effects include, but are not limited to:

• flu-like symptoms


• headache


• nausea


• respiratory infection


• droopy eyelids

Less frequent reactions to Botox Cosmetic and its generic competitors include facial pain, redness at the injection site, and muscle weakness. Since, the side effects are minor and rarely long lasting, it is considered a very safe non-surgical treatment. Perhaps, this is the reason Botox has become the top selling treatment for facial wrinkles. It may not be without its dangers, but it is still fair safer than surgery.