General Information
Manufacturer: Abbvie
Medical Name: onabotulinumtoxinA
Purpose: Botox is used for treatment of 12 Medical Conditions and for Aesthetics
Possible Side Effects
| Side Effect | Likelihood |
|---|---|
| Bruising/Ecchymosis | 5% - 25% |
| Headache/Migraine | 3% - 6.3% |
| Eyelid or Brow Ptosis (drooping) | 2.5% - 6.1% |
| Localized pain, swelling, redness | Common, no specific % |
| Eye sensory disorders (e.g., dry eyes) | 3% |
| Flu-like symptoms | One in five reports |
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or breathing issues
- Generalized muscle weakness
- Vision changes, such as blurred vision or double vision (diplopia)
- Allergic reactions, including hives, itching, or asthma symptoms
- Aspiration pneumonia (due to severe swallowing difficulties)
Absolute Contraindications
| Contraindication | Description |
|---|---|
| Neuromuscular Disorders | Conditions such as myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, or ALS increase the risk of severe side effects like breathing difficulties or muscle weakness. |
| Pregnancy and Breastfeeding | Safety has not been established in these groups, so it is not recommended. |
| Allergy or Hypersensitivity | A known allergy to botulinum toxin type A or other components in the formulation is an absolute contraindication. |
| Active Infection | Injection should be avoided in areas with an active skin infection, rash, or inflammation to prevent spreading the infection. |
| Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) | Individuals with BDD or unrealistic expectations may not benefit and could experience distress. |
Relative Contraindications and Cautions
In some cases, Botox may be considered with caution or after medical consultation.
| Contraindication | Description |
|---|---|
| Certain Medications | Some medications can interact with Botox, increasing the risk of complications. These include aminoglycoside antibiotics, which can enhance Botox's effects, and anticoagulants, which can increase the risk of bruising or bleeding. |
| Bleeding Disorders | Individuals with conditions like hemophilia have a higher risk of bruising or hematoma after injections. |
| Pre-existing Eye Conditions | Caution is advised for those with a history of dry eyes or eyelid issues, as Botox may worsen these symptoms. |