BOTOX© And Woman’s Health

What is BOTOX©

BOTOX©is a drug known most widely for its ability to temporarily smooth out facial wrinkles, though it also has several medical applications. Both its cosmetic and medical applications relate to Botox’s ability to block muscle contractions.

BOTOX© is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A that is manufactured by Allergan Pharmaceuticals Ireland a subsidiary of Allergan, Inc., 2525 Dupont Dr., Irvine, CA 92612.

BOTOX© must be injected because it can not work as a cream or tablet. BOTOX© is a drug that is injected into the muscle or muscles that is contracting abnormally or producing unwanted spasms.  It will weaken the nerve endings to the muscle thus stopping the impulse which would otherwise produce muscle contraction. The injections usually last between four to six months depending on individual results. Botulinum toxin is a form of food poisoning, but when given in extremely small amounts and is placed directly into the muscle has proven very useful for those who are suffering from abnormal contractions of muscle.

BOTOX© injections are very costly and is measured in units.  Always ask the doctor for the amount of units he/she will administer.  You can use this guide when making your inquiry: 24 Units for lines around both eyes (crow’s feet) / 20 units for frown lines between eyebrows / 16 units for forehead furrows.

How It Works

When BOTOX© is injected, it will travel through the tissues until it ends up into the nerve of the muscle or muscles.  The nerve endings will absorb it thus stopping the impulse between the nerve endings and the muscle which would otherwise produce muscle contraction.  This weakens the muscle or muscles that is contracting abnormally.  In time, the nerve endings regenerates, and the muscle or muscles become strong again.  This is why BOTOX©would have to be injected again when it wear off.

Where Does BOTOX© Work Best

BOTOX© will work best in the upper part of the face.  Lines all around the eyes (crow’s feet), frown lines between the eyebrows, and forehead furrows mostly always respond well to BOTOX© injections.  BOTOX© also has been used as treament for Dystonia, an involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscles.  As for lines around the mouth area, BOTOX© will respond about 50% of the time and can leave an uneven smile.  Sun damage, discoloration, and dimples do not respond well, at best to BOTOX© injections.