Can I get botulism from a Botox injection?

Question

I had Botox injections in my crows feet, 11", above my brows and upper lip. 15 minutes after leaving the Dr's office my throat started to swell shut, my heart was racing, my voice is hoarse and I have difficulty swallowing. Also a sight vision loss in one eye. This has resulted in two ER visits and an overnight hospital stay. I am being treated with prednisone, benadryl and pepcid (basically like like an allergic response). Can the Botox continue to spread further in my body and become botulism?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. A complete in person physical evaluation and medical history is required in order to answer your question accurately. Please seek medical attention to be diagnosed. Best,

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

The medical course you describe is highly unusual. Rare reports in the media of severe systemic effects sometimes impacting several people at time have been correlated with the use of non-Botox veterinary product or product that has been purchased from abroad. A reaction with true Botox as you describe is likely just as your treating physicians have determined, an allergic reaction. The doctor who did the injection and Allergan, the company that makes Botox, should be made aware. Aesthetic Botox injections are done with an amount too little to result in toxic effects. Placement of the Botox should be in muscles not necessary for breathing. Your description of Botox above the brows and the upper lip are consistent with regions safe for injection.Discuss your reaction with the physician treating you.For more information, click on the link below.All the best.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I don't know how many units you were treated with, but cosmetic treatments are usually 50 units or less. I have not heard of anyone getting true "botulism" from Botox, as the injectible is a derivative of it. It's botulinum toxin, which is different. Please make certain that at least one of your physicians and yourself have contacted Allergan to report your incidence. And I wish you a speedy recovery!"This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and
cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person
treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Can I get botulism from a Botox injection?

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Can I get botulism from a Botox injection?

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