Counterfeit Botox injections potentially caused hospitalizations in Illinois, per state health officials on Monday.
"Illinois inhabitants must exercise vigilance in contemplating cosmetic procedures," stated Dr. Sameer Vohra, the state's director of public health. "Receiving such treatments in unauthorized or unregulated environments could pose significant health risks to oneself or loved ones."
Alerts across the nation regarding unregulated medical procedures at spas are on the rise. The Illinois patients were administered injections by a nurse "engaging in unauthorized practices," as per the Public Health Department.
Clostridium botulinum, a neurotoxin, induces relaxation of facial muscles, preventing wrinkle formation. Botox is deemed safe overall; however, excessive application in improper areas can lead to harm, states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Recent instances involved patients experiencing symptoms akin to botulism, including blurred or doubled vision, facial drooping, fatigue, and breathing difficulties following injections with either Botox or a suspected fake variant, stated Illinois public health officials.
The Public Health Department refused an interview request on Monday.
