What is the Frequency of People Getting Botulism After a Botox Injection? How Often Has It Happened?

I've read about people on the Internet who suffer all the symptoms of botulism after receiving a small dose of Botox for cosmetic reasons. I'm scared - are these stories true?

Tags:

botulism statistics

Comment on this

4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Sdp in Spring, TX

Doctor Answers (4)
Community Comments (0)

Botox and its safety

Although some patients may have some symptoms that are similar to botulism, it is extraordinarily rare for cosmetic Botox treatment to cause multiple severe symptoms to be diagnosed as botulism. There have been cases though, when non FDA-approved Botulinum toxin, laboratory research grade, was used. See a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon for your treatment. They can discuss with you how many units would be expected to be used and this can give you a reference to the... more

Botox used cosmetically does not cause botulism

There has never been a single report of cosmetic Botox performed by an experienced injector such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon causing botulism. There have been mishaps of morons trying to use weapons-grade botulinum toxin causing botulism, but never in experienced and trained hands used cosmetically.

Benjamin Barankin, MD

10 reviews

Toronto Dermatologic Surgeon

Botox, Dysport

Don't be scared. With a qualified physician Botox injections are extremely safe. You will not get botulism. Side effects are uncommon, mostly minor, and include temporary discomfort at the site of injection, bruising, and headache. It's one of the most commonly performed cosmetic medical procedures worldwide.

Side effects from Botox are uncommon

Botox (and other forms of botulinum toxin) are extremely safe and side effects are very uncommon. I tell my patients to expect small bumps possibly some redness at the injection sites. Bruising is possible, but not expected. I am aware of one patient experience systemic side effects: flu like symptoms for about 24 hours or so after an injection. The side effects occurred after injection by another physician, but she was presenting back to me for... more