Nineteen individuals across nine states have experienced adverse reactions subsequent to undergoing cosmetic injections—commonly referred to as Botox—administered by unlicensed or inadequately trained individuals or in non-medical environments, as
stated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday. Some individuals received injections of fake or mishandled substances.
Of those affected, nine individuals required hospitalization, while four received treatment with botulism antitoxin due to concerns regarding the potential spread of botulinum toxin beyond the injection site, as outlined by the agency.
The incidents involving these products were reported in Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Washington.
According to the CDC, all 19 individuals are female, ranging in age from 25 to 59 years old, with all but one having received the injection for cosmetic reasons.
The agency, in collaboration with various state and local health departments, as well as the US Food and Drug Administration, is actively investigating these reports.
The CDC recommends inquiring with providers and establishments, such as clinics or spas, about their licensure and training in administering injections. Additionally, it advises questioning whether the product is FDA-approved and obtained from a reputable source. Should there be any doubts, the agency suggests refraining from undergoing the injection.
Botulism, an uncommon yet severe condition, arises from toxins released by bacteria targeting the nervous system. Symptoms encompass blurred or double vision, sagging eyelids, respiratory difficulty, exhaustion, slurred speech, or husky vocalization. Without intervention, muscle paralysis can advance from hours to days, potentially leading to fatality.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Clostridium botulinum bacteria constitutes an element in Botox and akin cosmetic preparations. As per a press
release disseminated last week, the FDA has sanctioned the purified botulinum toxin for application by authorized healthcare professionals in cosmetic therapy.
