Botox

Botox: what is it and how is it used?

Botox, also known as botulinum toxin, is a mixed-action muscle relaxant manufactured by Allergan in Ireland. This drug is used to treat various diseases associated with muscle activity such as blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, paralytic strabismus, spasmodic torticollis and local muscle spasm in adults and children over two years of age.

Botox contains the active substance botulinum toxin type A, which blocks the nerve impulses that cause muscle contraction. This can reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with excess muscle activity.

However, like any drug, Botox has contraindications and side effects. It is not recommended for use in myasthenia gravis, myasthenic and myasthenic-like syndromes, inflammation at the injection site, pregnancy, lactation and hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Side effects may include allergic reactions in the form of a skin rash, local reactions in the form of a burning sensation for 1-2 minutes, as well as a flu-like syndrome. When treating blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm, blepharoptosis may occur, as well as diplopia or symptoms indicating the spread of paralytic action to the median facial muscles. When treating spasmodic torticollis, dysphagia may occur, especially when the drug is injected into the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Despite these side effects, Botox is considered an effective and safe drug when used correctly. It can be used both for cosmetic purposes to eliminate wrinkles and for medical purposes to treat various diseases associated with muscle activity.

However, before using Botox, you should consult your doctor and carefully study the instructions for use of the drug. In addition, you should not self-medicate or use Botox without a doctor's prescription.