Botox: A Multipurpose Drug

Botox therapy was used for the first time in 1973 as a potential cure for people with crossed eyes (strabismus) and eye spasms (blepharospasm). It proved to be quite successful and, since gaining FDA approval in 1989, has become somewhat of a wonder drug, treating numerous other medical conditions.

Some of the other conditions now treated with Botox include: spasms of the face, mouth, neck, larynx and respiratory system, writer's cramp, certain kinds of tremors, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, post stroke states, spasmodic dysphonia , stuttering, headaches, lower back pain and urinary incontinence.

Botulinum toxin is derived from the same bacterium that produces botulism (food poisoning). A shot of Botox weakens or paralyzes the muscle area into which it is injected, thus also proving to be an effective and very popular treatment for wrinkle removal. Because it is non-invasive and produces minimal side effects, Botox therapy has gained widespread appeal for its cosmetic uses.

After a muscle has been injected the effect of the drug is not seen for at least 24 hours and in some cases the full effect may only be visible after a period of two weeks. The results may last from four months up to a year and one has to go for continual sessions of Botox therapy for long lasting and smoother skin. Doctors recommend re-injections after three to four months.

Sources:

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Finding More Uses For Botox, WCCO-TV: Minneapolis, MN

September 27, 2003