Definition
Botulinum toxin is made from a type of bacteria. It is toxic to the nerves. An injection puts this toxin into muscle. There, it blocks the chemical signal from the nerves to muscles. This will decrease the muscle contraction.
Botulinum toxin is used for cosmetic and medical reasons. The injection process is often called botox injection, although any brand of the botulinum toxin may be used.
Reasons for Procedure
The injection is FDA-approved to treat:
- Cervical dystonia—abnormal spasms of neck muscles
- Blepharospasm—spasm of eyelid muscles
- Strabismus—crossed eyes
- Hyperhydrosis—excessive sweating
The injection has also been used to treat other conditions, such as:
- Migraine headaches and tension headaches
- Achalasia—spasm of esophageal muscles causing difficulties in swallowing
- Spasmodic dysphonia
- Muscle spasms due to cerebral palsy
- Spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis
- Spasticity in leg and arm muscles due to brain injury/stroke
- Focal limb dystonias
- Incontinence due to bladder problems
- Anal sphincter disorders
- Peripheral nerve pain
- Temporomandibular disorder (jaw disorder)
What to Expect
Anesthesia
Most often, none is given. Some patients may prefer to have the area numbed for comfort. In this case, a topical anesthetic may be used.
Description of the Procedure
A thin needle will be used. The doctor will inject the toxin through the skin into the targeted muscle. You will often need several injections in a small area.
After Procedure
There is very little recovery needed, but remember to:
- Remain upright for several hours
- Avoid alcohol
How Long Will It Take?
The length will depend on the number of sites involved. It is often less than 20 minutes.
Will It Hurt?
You may have some minimal discomfort.
Post-procedure Care
Normal activities may be resumed after the procedure. For the best recovery, follow your doctor's instructions .
The toxin temporarily weakens targeted muscles. The treatment lasts up to four months. With repeated use, the effects may last longer.
Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty speaking
- Severe lower eyelid droop or obstructed vision
- Excessive weakness around the injection site
- Rash or any other sign of an allergic reaction
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: Mervin Low, MD, PC; Michael Woods, MD
- Review Date: 05/2013 -
- Update Date: 05/24/2013 -
