How is Botox safe if there are warnings about complications?

I was checking out Botox Prescribing information and the first thing I read is a warning that Botox Cosmetics may spread from the area of injection and may cause, among others, difficulties breathing and swallowing that can be life threatening.

How can Botox be considered a safe procedure with this kind of warning?! Now I'm definitely scared.

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20 answers to “How is Botox safe if there are...”

A: Botox side effects

Steven Hacker, MD

It is important to read and understand all the possible side effects from Botox injections. However, as with any medicine, the serious side effects, are uncommon. The typical side effects after injection that occur up to 5 % of the time include mild injection site bruising, ptosis, and occasional headaches.... more

A: Botox is a medical treatment

Ronald Shelton, MD

The side effects you mentioned are expressly described by the company for having been noted after Botox was used for neurologic uses such as muscle spasm. They continue to state that these side effects have not been noted with cosmetic use as indicated by the company. Neurologic use of Botox involves a much... more

A: How safe is Botox!

Beverly Johnson, MD

Very safe when used appropriately by a board certified expert. Of course there is nothing that cannot be done incorrectly so I would suggest going to the best person you can find.  I find that my Botox patients are among the most satisfied with their procedure. Hope this helps.

A: Is Botox Safe?

Michael Coverman, MD

Yes! If used properly, like anything else. The only major complications have arisen using Botox off-label for unapproved uses, especially in high doses in children for neurologic diseases. The warnings are necessary for your own decision making and to discuss with your doctor. There are side effects, but... more

A: Botox and Safety

Farbod Esmailian, MD

My question is then do you read the insert on aspirin, tylenol and motrin.  If you have then you would not be taking those either.  There are always risks with everything that we do in our daily life, like crossing the street and driving a car.  It all depends if the risks are realistic and... more

A: Risks of botulinum toxin

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

IF you are scared then don't do it. It is not for you and you may not be a risk taker. But if you read the side effects of aspirin  or ibuprofen, my guess is you would be scared and should not take them either. It is my opinion that botulinum toxin when administered properly is safer than aspirin.

A: Very Safe

Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

    As I understand it, there has not been a death from Botox when it was administered for cosmetic use.The warning regarding migration of Botox would have more to do with injection into sensitive areas. Certainly, if injections of over 400 units are given, say for cerebral palsy, one must be... more

A: Botox is totally safe if properly used.

George J. Beraka, MD

 Hi! Botox itself is really, really safe. The warnings are necessary because of possible misuse.  Too much Botox can be used, and it can be injected into dangerous, inappropriate places. So it's all about who gives you the Botox.  Go to an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

A: Botox and safety label

Steven Wallach, MD

The safety label lists many things including the ones you mentioned.  The risks of the ones you mentioned are extremely rare but have been reported, so the FDA made it mandatory to have them listed. 

A: How is Botox safe if there are warnings about complications?

Peter A. Aldea, MD

Dear Maya79, A few questions:- do you really need to be told NOT to use a hair dryer in a water filled tub or in the shower?- Have you read the side of ANY ladder in your neighborhood Lowe's or Home Depot?- How about the "instructions" on the use of ANY household appliance and every single... more

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