Botox is derived from the nerve toxin responsible for botulism. The botulism toxin, in its severest form, can cause paralysis but doctors have found ways to put a highly diluted product of the toxin to beneficial use. Botox can be used for both cosmetic purposes and to ease the symptoms of some medical ailments, and its benefits are enjoyed by millions of people every year.

Cosmetic Botox is most suitable for people who wish to diminish moderate to severe frown lines, crow’s feet and creases in the forehead. Very deep lines may require more than one treatment to be effective. Botox, however, is not suitable for treating wrinkles which are caused by sun damage, nor does it have an effect on the loss of the skin’s elasticity, which is a normal side effect of the ageing process. When used for cosmetic purposes, the ideal age for a candidate is between the ages of 18 and 65.

The other cosmetic application of Botox is reducing sweating. Injections into the arm pits can block the nerves which stimulate sweating. The results last around 6 months, although the duration of the effects depends on the individual. This treatment is popular among people working in either stressful or high pressure professions, such as sales or law, who work in humid conditions or who do a lot of manual lifting. Botox is also used where sweating is profuse enough to me considered a medical problem (hyperhydrosis). Currently, it is only FDA approved for reducing sweating in the underarm area.

Botox is sometimes prescribed off-label to people who suffer badly from tension headaches or migraines. Research is ongoing into the effectiveness and safety of using Botox for this purpose but the results are promising, with the majority of patients reporting a reduction in the frequency and severity of their headaches and migraines. It has been found to be particularly successful when treating patients who have found other treatments, such as oral medication, to be ineffective.

Due to its paralyzing effects, Botox has been successful in treating patients who suffer from spasms. For instance, multiple injections can be administered around the eye to treat blepharospasm (eye lid spasms). Other areas commonly treated include the neck (cervical dystonia) and the face (Hemifacial spasm).The effects of Botox are temporary and treat the symptoms of the problem rather than the root. Therefore treatments need to be repeated around every 3 months. However, Botox can eliminate anal fissures as the injection should prevent spasms long enough for the area to heal. Consequently, patients suffering from anal fissures should only require on treatment.

There are certain which prevent someone from having Botox treatment. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid Botox injections as there are a lack of studies into the effects on the mother and child. Patients taking antibiotics should advise the medical practitioners of this before undergoing treatment, as some medications will preclude you from having the procedure. There are also several medical disorders such as multiple sclerosis which would make someone unsuitable for Botox treatment. Your doctor will be able to advise whether Botox is right for you.