Botox™

Botox™ is used to make lines or wrinkles between the eyebrows look better. It only lasts for a short time.

What is Botox™?

Botox™ comes from a kind of bacteria. The bacteria can make you very sick. But doctors have found that the chemical in Botox™ can also help treat some health problems. They have been using it safely for many years.

How was this found?

FDA approved Botox™ over 10 years ago to treat certain problems with the eye muscle. Doctors noticed that some wrinkles around the eyes looked better, too. The company that makes Botox™ tested it. They showed the FDA that Botox™ worked and was safe for treating some kinds of wrinkles.

How does Botox™ work?

Wrinkles may be caused when a muscle tightens. Botox™ is injected through the skin into the muscle. The Botox™ keeps the muscle from tightening. When the muscle can’t tighten, the wrinkle doesn’t show as much.

You mean you can't move your muscles?

A doctor trained in the use of Botox™ will inject small amounts Botox™ into the muscle. Only treated muscle can’t move.

What happens over time?

Botox™ works for about four months. As the muscle returns to normal, you will see the wrinkle again.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects may include:

Droopy eyelids, which can last for a few weeks
Feeling like you have the flu
Headache and upset stomach
Risk of botulism (a life or death illness that makes it hard for a person to move the arms and legs or to breathe) is low with Botox™, if used the right way

REMEMBER: Botox™ is a drug, not a cosmetic.

What should I do if I want to try Botox™?

Ask about how Botox™ could help or hurt you.
Make sure your doctor is trained in the use of Botox™.
Make sure you get treatment in a doctor’s office or clinic.
Botox™ parties are not safe. Never share a tube of Botox™.
Emergency equipment should be on hand in case of a problem.
Do not use if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
Do not use if you are breast feeding.
Tell your doctor if you are taking antibiotics.
Tell your doctor if you have any problems with nerves or muscles.

What else should I know about Botox™?

Botox™ is only approved to treat wrinkles between the eyebrows.
Botox™ is only approved for people 18-65 years old. It has not been tested in other age groups.

To learn more:

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Botox Cosmetic: A Look at Looking Good
FDA Approves Botox To Treat Frown Lines

American Academy of Dermatology
Phone: 1-888-462-3376

American Society for Dermatologic Surgery
Phone: 1-800-441-2737

FDA Office of Women’s Health
www.fda.gov/womens
2007