Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: BOTULINUM TOXIN - INJECTION (BOTT-you-lie-num)
BRAND NAME(S): Botox, Botox Cosmetic
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication blocks the action of muscles. It is used in the treatment of certain eye disorders such as strabismus and blepharospasm. It is also used to treat severe underarm sweating. It is also useful in treating certain spasms, movement disorders, tremors, as well as cosmetic skin treatment.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into specific eye muscles by an experienced health care professional. Your dose and frequency of administration will be determined in part by your condition and your response to therapy.
SIDE EFFECTS: Because this medication is given at the site of action, few side effects are reported. Double vision, drooping or swollen eyelid, dry eye, tearing, eye irritation or increased sensitivity to light may occur. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: vision changes, reduced blinking. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially of: aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: It is important to understand the risks and benefits of this therapy. Discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your health care professional.
MISSED DOSE: Continuous dosing is not required.
STORAGE: Store this medication as directed.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Botox - Botox is the brand name of a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.Small, diluted amounts can be directly injected into specific muscles causing controlled weakening of the muscles.
- Muscle Spasms - Read about muscle spasms, their causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Symptoms and signs include acute pain at the site of the muscle contractions (twitches or fasciculations).
- Botox to Treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Multiple Sclerosis treatment using botox
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