BOTOX® Cosmetic

BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines.

Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic

Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following:

  • Forehead furrows
  • Frown lines
  • Crow's feet
  • Skin bands on the neck

According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been "extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies."

BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results

Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals.

Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic

Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following:

  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Inflammation
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Bleeding
  • Bruising

Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.


Xeomin®

Xeomin® is a prescription medication used to effectively treat intramuscular conditions such as blepharospasm, or abnormal involuntary closing of the eyelid. Xeomin is composed of botulinum toxin type A, a naturally occurring protein that is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Xeomin is injected into the affected muscles in order to reduce their activity. Xeomin does not stop the muscle from moving entirely; instead, it modifies the contractions. This is achieved by inhibiting a body chemical called acetylcholine from signaling all of the nerves within the muscle to contract.

Blepharospasm is a condition involving abnormal involuntary spasms of the eyelids. Injections of Xeomin administered into the muscles of the eyelid can help relieve spasms for many patients.

The number of injections necessary will vary from patient to patient, depending upon the number of muscles affected and the severity of the condition. The results of treatment with Xeomin are usually seen after one week and last, on the average, up to 12 weeks.

Risks of Xeomin Treatment

While an effective medication for muscle spasms, treatment with Xeomin carries certain risks. Whether they occur hours or weeks after treatment, the following symptoms may be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention:

  • Difficulty speaking, swallowing or breathing
  • Muscle weakness throughout the body
  • Double vision
  • Blurred vision
  • Drooping eyelids
  • Change in voice quality
  • Problems with articulation
  • Loss of bladder control

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