Botox: The Wonder Potion

By now every one has heard about using the protein Botulinum (Botox) for forehead and crowsfeet wrinkles. There is nothing on the market better for these areas of the face and its side effect profile is minimal. However, it uses extend far beyond this and some of the newest uses will be discussed here. It is a product that has been used medically for years before its cosmetic indications, such as treatment for strabismus, facial muscle spasms, voice box spasms and neck muscle spasms. Three new indications which will be discussed are not FDA approved so it is considered off label use, which really is not a concern because there is no FDA approved antibiotic for chronic sinusitis! so there. The FDA approval only allows the drug company to legally advertise an indication for a specific drug.

Botox injections for refractory migraine headaches has become more accepted over the last 7 years. This was incidentally found during its use for forehead wrinkles when patients with migraine headaches reported a significant improvement in the migraine condition. Chronic Migraine headache is usually an idiopathic, recurrent, episodic, debilitating headache that is best cared for by a neurologist. If the traditional medications for prevention and reduction of episodes fails, then one treatment with Botox injections are an effective alternative providing relief for 3-9 months.

Botox injections for acne is developing a foothold with the medical community. The injection is placed into the most superficial part of the skin. It reduces the oil glands production of sebum which is the main reason for plugging of skin ducts causing pimples and pustules. It lasts for 3-6 months.

Botox injections for underarm sweating is becoming more popular yearly especially among executives who want to avoid the dreaded visible underarm stain of sweat. This works by the same principle as in acne, but instead works on the sweat glands lasting from 6-9 months.

This is an excellent drug whose indications are expanding with time. Dr. Richard Bailey MD, facial plastic & reconstructive surgeon from Bullhead City and Henderson NV reports “Botox is the number one cosmetic procedure in the world. We use it daily for cosmetic and medical reasons with tremendous success”