Botulinum toxin
Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by a certain type of bacteria (Clostridium botulinum). It is the same toxin that can cause a type of food poisoning (botulism) if a person gets too much in his or her system.
Botox shots may be used to treat a wide range of problems, such as:
- Removing facial wrinkles.
- Preventing underarm sweating in people who sweat too much.
- Relaxing muscles that cause spasms in the eyelids or the esophagus.
- Treating chronic migraine headaches.
- Reducing urinary incontinence.
The effect usually wears off within a few months. When Botox is injected in small amounts into muscles, it doesn't get into a person's blood or cause sickness.
Why is botulinum toxin (Botox) treatment done?
Botulinum toxin has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating frown lines in adults younger than 65. Botox injections also are frequently used to reduce other wrinkles on the face and neck, such as crow's feet, brow furrow, and forehead lines.
Botulinum toxin is also approved by the FDA to treat a wide range of problems, such as chronic migraine headaches, eye muscle disorders, and muscle stiffness.
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