BOTOX: a review

Abstract

BOTOX cosmetic is proving to be an affordable alternative for thousands of people looking to enhance their appearance without the cost, risks and downtime associated with surgical procedures. Botulinum toxin is a neuromuscular blocking agent produced by Clostridium Botulinum, an anaerobic bacterium. When first discovered BOTOX was pinpointed as the cause of severe paralysis acquired through the ingestion of contaminated food. Paralysis related to BOTOX is caused by chemodenervation, which is a result of blockage of the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. The corrugator (medial eyebrows), crow's feet, forehead, platysmal neckbands, and the jowl are frequently targeted areas for BOTOX injections. There are no current guidelines for physical limitations following the administration of BOTOX. Side effects associated with BOTOX infections appear to be either local, due to the paralysis of adjacent muscles, or mild flu-like symptoms lasting a few days in a small number of patients.