Botulinum toxin is a protein produced by a certain type of bacteria (Clostridium botulinum). It is the same toxin that can cause a type of food poisoning (botulism) if a person gets too much in his or her system.
Botox shots may be used to treat a wide range of problems, such as:
- Removing facial wrinkles.
- Preventing underarm sweating in people who sweat too much.
- Relaxing muscles that cause spasms in the eyelids or the esophagus.
- Treating chronic migraine headaches.
- Reducing urinary incontinence.
The effect usually wears off within a few months. When Botox is injected in small amounts into muscles, it doesn't get into a person's blood or cause sickness.
Current as of: December 3, 2024