The CDC has reported 22 cases in the past 6 months about individuals being hospitalized for botulism after receiving counterfeit or mishandled botox injections. This can happen when unlicensed or untrained professionals are administering “botox” treatments or when professionals are administering counterfeit botox for a lower price.
What is botulism?
Botulism is a serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. This toxin affects the nervous system, which can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and difficulty breathing. Other side effects of botulism include blurry vision or double vision, difficulty swallowing, and fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate. Botulism is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. In cases of botulism, botulinum toxin is ingested via contaminated food or entered into the body in toxic doses, leading to severe symptoms.
How does Botox differ from botulism?
Although Botox and botulism are related in that they both involve the botulinum toxin, they are very different. Botox is a purified botulinum toxin type A that is used therapeutically and cosmetically in small, controlled doses to temporarily relax muscles and eliminate wrinkles. Additionally, Botox is a well-studied and FDA-approved product to smooth out wrinkles.
How to avoid getting fake Botox?
Always go to a licensed professional that has experience with Botox injections. Many people are quickly swayed by the appeal of lower prices of Botox injections in hotel rooms, spas, or even at their own home. However, this medication is designed to be carefully administered by a medical professional. Here at Halo Beverly Hills, we pride ourselves in providing effective and safe treatments to our patients.