Botox is the trade name for Botulinum toxin A- a drug derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Clostridium botulinum is a life-threatening toxin that causes food poisoning or botulism.
Botox- as a cosmetic solution- is a purified protein derived from the toxic bacterium. It is a non-surgical type of cosmetic procedure in the field of plastic surgery. It also requires a physician to administer the drug effectively on patients.
BOTOX Treatment Process
Botox is administered by making tiny injections on the area where the wrinkles or frown lines are situated. Botox injections block certain nerves, or weaken or paralyze certain muscles. The drug goes directly into the muscles and the treatment usually lasts for only 10 minutes or less. After the treatment, the patient can go home and there is no need for recovery time.
It only takes a few days to see the effect on the skin. Generally, the skin improvement can last up to 4 months. The effect may vary from one person to another, and it depends on the health history and lifestyle of the patient.
Other Health Problems that can be treated with Botox
Doctors also use Botox in treating certain health problems.
Small doses of botox may help relieve the following health conditions:
Blepharospasm or uncontrollable blinking
Cervical dystonia - severe neck and shoulder muscle contractions caused by a neurological disorder
Severe underarm sweating
Strabismus or misaligned eyes
Botox injections may also be used to ease prostate symptoms as well as eliminate migraine
Some common side effects caused by Botox
Flu-like symptoms
Pain around the injected area
Upset stomach
Headache
Temporary drooping eyelids if botox is injected in the face area
Precautions and risks
Botox should not be administered to pregnant and breast feeding women. If you are unsure about botox, consult your doctor first before undergoing this type of cosmetic procedure.