The Long-Term Effects of Botox

Botox, medically known as botulinum toxin type A, is an FDA-approved injectable prescription drug administered by a physician to temporarily remove or loosen facial wrinkles, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Botox can also be used to treat uncontrollable blinking, excessive underarm sweating, uncontrollable blinking or misaligned eyes. Before receiving Botox treatment, speak with your physician to discuss long-term effects associated with this medication 2.

Muscle Weakening or Paralysis

According to the Food and Drug Administration, one of the intended effects of Botox is to stop or decrease muscle function 2. As a result, Botox may cause patients to experience the absence of voluntary muscle control or decreased muscle strength at the treated area. Muscular effects of Botox usually disappear over time, reports Baylor College of Medicine 12. However, this requires patients to undergo additional treatments to achieve their personal desired effects.

Injection Site Pain

Baylor College of Medicine explains that patients can experience mild to severe pain after at injection sites 1. After continuous treatment, skin surrounding the injection site may appear swollen, bruised, swollen to the touch and red. Painful symptoms associated with Botox injections should subside following treatment and are considered temporary.

Eye Irritation

Patients who receive Botox injections near the eyes may develop eye related side effects 2. After injection treatment, eyes can become irritated or dry, which can cause them to appear bloodshot and red, notes the Food and Drug Administration. In addition, eye irritation can cause itchy and watery eyes. Patients who develop blurred vision, drooping of the eyelids or eyelid swelling after receiving a Botox injection should speak with a physician immediately.

Allergic Reaction

Certain patients who regularly receive Botox treatment may experience long-term affects due to allergic reactions, reports Drugs.com 2. Such symptoms, if left untreated, can be fatal.

Flu-like Symptoms

Some patients who receive Botox treatments can experience flu-like symptoms on or after injections. According to Medline Plus, symptoms can include:

• headache
  
• chills
  
• runny nose
  
• fatigue
  
• body aches 3

Patients who routinely receive Botox injections can also experience stomach related effects such as nausea or indigestion 2. Generally, these side effects disappear after continued use 2. Patients should contact a doctor to receive treatment for these symptoms.