Botulinum toxin or Botox is made from a type the clostridium botulinum bacteria that causes botulism, a potentially deadly type of food poisoning, notes Medline Plus. Botox is used in very small doses to treat muscle problems that cause uncontrollable blinking and lazy eye, because of its ability to temporarily weaken muscles or block certain nerves. Botox injections can also help diminish severe underarm sweating and temporarily fill out facial wrinkles. The effects of Botox typically last up to 4 months. Botox injections can cause numerous side effects which in rare cases can be serious and because it is a potentially hazardous substance, treatments should be administered only under the care of a properly certified doctor, cautions the Mayo Clinic.
Mild Side Effects
Adverse reactions from Botox are uncommon and generally mild, temporary and confined to the injection site, notes the American Academy of Dermatology or AAD. Minor side effects can include, slight bruising and/or bleeding, muscle stiffness, tenderness and soreness. Headaches are possible if Botox was injected in the forehead area. While Botox injections near the eyes may cause watery or itchy eyes, swelling or bruising of the eyelid and greater sensitivity to light, notes Drugs.com. Other temporary side effects may include cough, fever, sore throat, nausea, fatigue, dizziness and anxiety.
Possible Allergic Reaction
Some people who receive Botox injections for medical or cosmetic reasons may have an allergic reaction to the substance, reports the Mayo Clinic. While uncommon allergic responses can include breaking out in hives, itching, chest tightness, difficulty breathing and swelling. Seek emergency medical care right away if swelling of throat, tongue, lips or face occurs or if you experience chest discomfort or trouble breathing, advises Drugs.com.
Life Threatening Complications
In rare cases the botulinum toxin contained in Botox can spread outside of the injection site and cause potentially deadly side effects, according to Drugs.com. Serious adverse reactions such as severe muscle weakness, loss of bladder control, vision problems, drainage or crusting from the eyes, acute pain in the arms or shoulders and seizures all require immediate medical attention. People who have received Botox injections in the neck may have problems swallowing, notes the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center or UPMC. Certain antibiotics and other medications may interact with Botox. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people who have inflammation or an infection should not use Botox.
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