Botox is a drug made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is a neurotoxin that affects nerves and causes muscle paralysis. Botox injections use a purified form of botulinum toxin to prevent a muscle from moving for a limited time. The effects of Botox injections last about three to twelve months, depending on what is being treated. Botox is used for both medical and cosmetic purposes.

Medical uses of Botox include treating:

• Neck spasms
• Sweating
• Overactive bladder
• Lazy eye
• Migraines
• Cervical dystonia
• Blepharospasm
• Upper or lower limb spasticity

Cosmetic uses of Botox include reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles, such as frown lines and crows feet.

Botox injections are generally safe, but they can cause temporary side effects such as pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, flu-like symptoms, headache, and upset stomach. Injections in the face may also cause temporary drooping eyelids. It is important to avoid alcohol starting at least one week before the procedure and to stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to help prevent bruising.