| drug name | Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox) |
| classification | Neuromuscular blocking agent, Botulinum toxin |
| pharmacokinetics | Botulinum toxin is injected into the specific muscle to create temporary paralysis. It is not absorbed systemically and its effects are limited to the injected area. The toxin binds to the presynaptic nerve terminals, preventing the release of acetylcholine, which leads to muscle relaxation. The duration of action varies based on the dose, individual factors and site of injection, typically lasting several months. The toxin is not metabolized but broken down gradually by the body. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage is highly individualized and dependent on the specific area being treated, the severity of the wrinkles, and the patient's response. A physician will determine the appropriate unit dosage by considering the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals. The treatment is performed by injection of the Botox preparation. Precise calculation of units is critical; too little may result in minimal or no visible improvement, while too much may cause unwanted side effects. |
| indications | For cosmetic treatment of wrinkles such as frown lines (glabellar lines), crow's feet (periorbital lines), and forehead wrinkles (frontalis lines). *Important note: Botulinum toxin is not indicated for treating volume loss or deep wrinkles that require a different treatment approach* |
| safety in pregnancy | There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, the drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Pregnant women should not be treated with Botox. |
| safety in breastfeeding | It is not known whether botulinum toxin type A is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential risk to nursing infants, the drug should not be used in breastfeeding women. |
| side effects | | 1 | Mild to moderate pain, swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Dry mouth | | 4 | Temporary eyelid drooping (ptosis) | | 5 | Muscle weakness in the treated area | | 6 | Facial asymmetry | | 7 | Rarely: Serious side effects such as difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, or allergic reactions. | | 8 | Temporary brow or eyelid drooping | | 9 | Eye problems including double vision. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Known allergy to botulinum toxin type A or any of the components of the preparation | | 2 | Active skin infection or inflammation at the injection site | | 3 | Neurological conditions (such as myasthenia gravis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)) requiring careful consideration by the treating physician | | 4 | Current or recent use of blood thinners |
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| interactions | No significant drug interactions are typically reported. Patients who have used blood thinners should inform the doctor, as their use may influence the treatment outcomes. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Botulinum toxin injections should be administered by a qualified medical professional with experience in cosmetic procedures. | | 2 | Patients should be monitored closely for any adverse reactions after the treatment. | | 3 | Treatment efficacy and safety are patient-specific; results may vary. | | 4 | Patients should discuss any underlying medical conditions or medications they are taking with their doctor before treatment. |
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| additional information | Patients should be informed that initial effects of Botox may not be fully apparent for a few days; full effects typically develop over a period of one to two weeks. |
| patient profile | |
