Botox™

Botox™ is used to make lines or wrinkles between the eye brows 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 a chemical in Botox™ can also help treat some health problems. They have been using it safely for many years.

How was this found?

• FDA (Food and Drug Administration) 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 of Botox™ into the muscle. Only the 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?

Yes

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

* 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

Quick Facts About Botox:

Are "Botox parties" safe?

No. You should only get Botox in a clinic or doctor's office. You should never share a tube of Botox.

Can I use Botox on other wrinkles?

Botox is only approved to treat wrinkles between the eyebrows.

Can I get Botox at any age?

Botox is only approved for people 18-65 years old. It has not been tested on people under 18 or over 65.

To learn more:

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

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