Is it possible that after getting the Botox shots, it could cause shingles?

Question

A year ago I went in to have Botox shots due to migraines, three days later I had shingles on my back and waist. Four months later I went back in and got them again a few days later I had shingles again so I told my doctor he said I had gentile herpes. So I was tested and it was shingles, has anyone else had this same side effect?

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Although the Botox would not cause shingles, stress will. I would suggest that you get a handle on the shingles -- speak with your doctor about taking a low dose medication to deter outbreaks - before pursuing any kind of cosmetic procedure. I am so sorry that you are going through this.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Anything can stimulate shingles.  There typically is no rhyme or reason.  I suggest you get the shingles treated and avoid cosmetic treatments during this time.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello fccuman,Thanks for your question.It does seem that the stress of Botox injections makes you susceptible to shingles outbreaks.  Botox is a neuromodulator and shingles is a condition that involves sensory nerve pathways.I have not had any of my own patients experience this though.Speak with your injector about this and I agree that prophylaxis with a medication like Acyclovir prior to your injections might be helpful.Good luck,Dr. Shah

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

I have never had that happen to my patients but it is totally possible that you could have an outbreak. You probably need to either prophylaxis with an antiviral prior to your Botox or seek other treatment than Botox for your migraines.

Matthew Elias, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  This is a highly unusual situation, but any stress to the body including sickness, surgery, emotional stress, etc. can lead to Shingles, which in and of itself is a reactivation of the Chickenpox (Varicella) virus you had previously.  In your case it appears as though the stress of the injections is causing the dormant virus to erupt.  Other scenarios may exist if you can recall some other reason for your immune system to be stressed at the same time you had the botox injections both time previously.  Nevertheless, prior to your next Botox injection you should receive prophylaxes with Valtrex to help prevent a flare.  Thank you for bringing up this unique question and good luck with your next injection.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello fccuman,The Botox itself would not cause Shingles.  Shingles can occur when the body is under stress or if your immune system is stressed.  In your case it sounds like the stress of the injections has led to the outbreak.  There are medications you can take such as valacylcovir or acyclovir before you receive your Botox to help minimize the risk of recurrence.  It is more common if you have a history of herpes around the mouth and you receive injections around the mouth to have an outbreak of that herpes.  You really shouldn't be having recurrent outbreaks of Shingles which is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox in children.  Once you have the recurrence your immune system usually is able to find off the virus to prevent a second outbreak.  I would recommend you discuss this with your injector before you receive your next treatment to help prevent any further outbreaks.

Is it possible that after getting the Botox shots, it could cause shingles?

Answers (6)

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