botox

Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. In medical and cosmetic use, purified toxin is injected in small volumes to block acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, producing temporary relaxation of the targeted muscle.

Mechanism: By cleaving SNARE proteins involved in acetylcholine vesicle fusion, botulinum toxin prevents nerve impulses from triggering muscle contraction. The effect is localized to the treated area and gradually wears off as nerve terminals regenerate.

Medical uses include management of cervical dystonia, blepharospasm and strabismus, chronic migraine prevention, overactive bladder, and certain forms of muscle spasticity. It is also used to reduce excessive sweating in focal hyperhidrosis. Some indications are off-label or region-specific and require assessment by a clinician.

Cosmetically, Botox is used to soften facial wrinkles, especially glabellar frown lines, crow's feet, and horizontal forehead lines. Results are typically seen within days to weeks and last about two to four months, with repeat treatments needed to maintain effect.

Common side effects include injection-site pain, redness, swelling, or bruising, as well as headaches and temporary eyelid ptosis. Less frequent effects may include dry eyes, excessive tearing, or flu-like symptoms. More serious adverse events are uncommon but can occur if the toxin affects neighboring muscles or spreads from the injection site.

Botulinum toxin products are prescription medicines; administration should be performed by trained professionals. Contraindications include allergy to the toxin, infection at the injection site, and, in some cases, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Safety and dosing depend on the indication and patient factors.