Botox derives from C. botulinum bacteria, which are present in many natural settings, including soil, lakes, forests, and the intestinal tracts of mammals and fish. However, when Botox is appropriately used in a therapeutic context, it is safe and has few side effects. Manufacturers make Botox injections with very small doses of Botulinum toxin. The drug can temporarily paralyze muscles, which can benefit people with various muscle or nerve disorders.
How does it work?
Botox is a neurotoxin. These substances target the nervous system, disrupting the nerve signaling processes that stimulate muscle contraction. This is how the drug causes temporary muscle paralysis.
For any muscle to contract, the nerves release a chemical messenger called acetylcholine at the junction where nerve endings meet muscle cells. Acetylcholine attaches to receptors on the muscle cells and causes the cells to contract, or shorten.
Botox injections prevent the release of acetylcholine, which stops the muscle cells from contracting. In this way, the toxin helps the muscles to become less stiff.
Risks and side effects
People generally tolerate Botox injections well, and side effects are uncommon.
However, depending on the reason for the injections and the person’s response, Botulinum toxin can cause some unwanted effects, including:
- dry eye, following cosmetic uses
- an upset stomach
- numbness
- mild pain, swelling or bruising around the injection site
- a headache
- temporary eyelid drooping
People should not use Botox if they have:
- a sensitivity or allergy to it
- an infection at the injection site
Also, it may extend beyond the injection site, possibly leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing.
Botox has cosmetic and medical uses. It can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help treat certain disorders related to the nervous and muscular systems.
If someone wants to try, it is a good idea to speak to a specialist about the risks, costs, and other considerations.
Should you want to get a botox and need more information, we are happy to discuss any questions you may have about Botox and how you can go through this procedure. Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care. Call us today to get started!