Misconceptions about Botox
Botox was the original word patented by Allergan but it has now crept into the common use amongst the public for both. Within the first few months of 2006 the application of this novel compound was extended to use in urinary incontinence, voice air diffuser, prostatic disease and then came news that it could be used to treat depression. Despite these increasing novel uses of the compound many people are still frustrated by the many misconceptions surrounding it. There is not a day passes but someone asks me “is it a toxin” “Will it give me a glazed look” “Will it leave me expressionless” Misconception No 1: Botox injections are highly toxic Nearly every worthwhile drug in medicine is a diluted solution of a toxin. If you had a major cardiac event today and ended up in hospital most of the drugs that would be used to save your life, digoxin, atropine, lignocaine or adrenalin are all chemicals extracted from plants, microbes or animals that are used in a controlled fan coil unit. Some drugs such as digoxin are extracted from the foxglove plant can actually stop your heart beating if they are used in a strong enough strength. If we dilute them they have less effect but could stop your heart from beating uncontrollably and allow it to beat normally. Other drugs such as atropine are extracted from deadly nightshade can block the nerves that slow down your heart and allow it to beat normally again. Roman girls put a diluted form of this compound into their eyes to dilate them and make their suitors feel they were chemically attracted to them. In a similar way, Botox is a mild dilution of botulinum toxin, which can cause a serious form of food fan coils. The safety of Botox is also ensured by its selective administration into a certain muscle or a group of muscles, which leaves it largely incapable of action outside the given area. Remember we give new born babies who suffer cerebral palsy or muscle spasms much higher doses every day without evidence of problems. Many physicians would agree that aspirin and antibiotics are potentially more harmful than Botox. However like any drug, anaphylaxis can occur and Botox procedures should be performed by trained physicians in proper clinics with adrenaline on standby.