Could high covid antibody levels increase the chance of the immune system developing Botox antibodies?

Question

I want to get Botox soon, but want to time it right to decrease likelihood of Botox antibodies/resistance. I had my 2nd case of COVID (mild) 3 months ago. Just did a quantitative COVID antibody test w/ 4560 u/ml Spike Ab Dilution, which is high. I feel good; no symptoms. Theoretically, could having high levels of COVID antibodies increase likelihood of my immune system developing Botox antibodies when injected? If so, I’ll postpone Botox a few more months to decrease likelihood of resistance.

Giuseppe Fiore, MD · Answer

Hi,

Thank you for your question. I don't have any scientific evidence that COVID antibodies can increase the probability of developing antibodies against Botox. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is a completely different substance than Botox, and the antibodies produced against the virus are completely different from those produced against Botox.
However, I have noticed, and several of my colleagues have also realized, that during the COVID-19 pandemic, several patients have delayed or postponed their anti-wrinkle treatments due to restrictions. For this reason, some patients have experienced more muscle movement and wrinkles than before. In addition, stress and anxiety related to the pandemic may have contributed to an increase in facial expressions, which can also affect the duration of the Botox results.
I would suggest consulting with a qualified doctor experienced in aesthetic medicine and facial treatments who can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment for you.

Best Wishes, 
Dr. Giuseppe Fiore

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is rare to have immunity to Botox.  Many patients have recovered from COVID and are achieving expected results from Botox injections.  There is much we are still learning about COVID but at this time there is no known concern to have Botox treatment once recovered from COVID.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

There is currently no evidence to suggest that having high levels of COVID antibodies will increase the likelihood of developing antibodies against Botox.

Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract, and it does not interact with the immune system in the same way that viruses or bacteria do. While it is possible to develop antibodies against Botox, this is a rare occurrence and typically only happens after repeated exposure to the toxin over a long period of time.

Therefore, based on the information you provided, it is unlikely that your COVID antibodies will impact your body's response to Botox. However, it is always a good idea to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before receiving any medical treatment, including Botox injections. They can help determine the best timing for your treatment based on your individual health status and medical history.

Best of luck !

Drew Varano, MD · Answer

There is some unofficial evidence in medical literature that the Covid vaccine may blunt or shorten the duration of neurotoxin injections . The vaccine like the virus itself causes an immune response of antibodies . In theory these antibody’s attack  specific proteins of invading bacteria /virus . My unconfirmed  speculation is Neurotoxins like Botox  ( being a foreign invader) may have some cross reactivity  to a similar protein(s) which the antibody neutralizes to shorten its duration of activity . Here’s more info on this at allure article ( yes not the most scientific publication) January 2023 just google “Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Making Your Botox Wear Off Faster? “

Could high covid antibody levels increase the chance of the immune system developing Botox antibodies?

Answers (4)