All about Botulinum Toxin
Botulinum Toxin (Botox) is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is a neurotoxic protein and one of the most poisonous biological substances known. It prevents the release of acetylcholine from axon endings at the neuromuscular junction and thus, causes flaccid paralysis. So In simple terms, it weakens or paralyzes muscles. Even though it is harmful when used correctly and in small doses, it is medically and cosmetically useful. In this blog, we talk all about Botulinum Toxin.
All about Botulinum Toxin
Types
- Botulinum Toxin is of seven main types labeled as A, B, C [C1, C2], D, E, F, and G.
- Types A and B: Used for medical and cosmetic purposes. Also, cause diseases.
- Types E and F: Cause diseases.
- Types C – G are not so abundant.
Toxicity
Scientists have estimated that 1.3-2.1 ng/kg of Type A is lethal intravenously and 10-13 ng/kg when inhaled. That is, 1μ gram of it could kill a human, 1 gram could kill a million people and a few kilograms could wipe out the entire human population.How is it used?
Botulinum Toxin is generally administered intravenously, that is, via direct injection into the neuromuscular tissue. It may take 3-12 hours for it to take effect and effects may last for up to 3-12 months.Uses
Botulinum Toxin is used in the treatment of various medical conditions. Some of them are- Relax Stiff Muscles. It is used to relax the muscles of the esophagus, jaw, bladder, also lower unary tract, etc.
- Control Overactive Muscle Movement. Includes Cerebral Palsy, post-stroke spasticity, head and also neck spasms, etc. It also helps control overactive bladder in patients suffering from the side effects of other medications.
- Reduce excessive underarm sweat, drooling, and salivating.
- For Neuromuscular diseases.
- Reducing Pain. For Migraines, Neck, and Lower-back pain, etc.
- For Ear, Throat, and Nose disorders.
- For Cosmetic Purposes.
- Reduce Frown Lines.
- Reduce Wrinkles.
- Reduce horizontal creases on the forehead.
- Rejuvenation of aging skin.
Side Effects
Botox, as it is generally marketed, is received well and side effects are not so common. But they occur nonetheless. Some unwanted effects are:- Muscle Weakness in the area where Botox was injected.
- Bruising, Redness, Pain, Swelling, or Bleeding at the injection site.
- Muscle stiffness, and pain in the neck, arms, and legs.
- Dry Mouth, Problem in swallowing.
- Blurred Vision, Dry Eyes, and Puffy eyelids.
- Tiredness, Headache, or an Upset Stomach.
- Excessive sweating.
- Side effects of Cosmetic Procedures include
- Partial facial paralysis.
- Muscle Weakness, Trouble swallowing.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Allergic reactions.
Effects of Over Dosage
- Passing out.
- Trouble Breathing
