What is Botox?
Botulinum Toxin, or Botox™ as it's more commonly known, is often used to treat the following conditions:
- Cervical Dystonia/Torticollis
- Excessive Salivation/Sialorrhea
- Excessive Sweating/Hyperhidrosis
- Headache/Migraine
- Hemifacial spasm/Blepharospasm
- Jaw Clenching/Bruxism/TMJ Dysfunction
- Spasticity
- Tremor
Botulinum Toxin Type A comes in different commercial forms including Botox™ (Allergan pharmaceuticals) and Dysport™ (Ispen pharmaceuticals).
Side Effects of Botulinum Toxin Therapy
Common side effects from receiving Botox include pain in the area of the injection, a rash, itchiness, headaches, and tiredness. On occassion, short-lived flu-like symptoms may also be present as a result of the treatment.
A valid referral from your doctor is required before an appointment can be made.
Preparing for your Botox appointment
There is no specific preparation required when receiving Botox treatment. It typically takes 5-10 days to take effect, reaching its peak after 1-2 months. The Botox then diminishes around 3 months due to a slow elimination by the body. Repeat injections are required in order to receive an ongoing clincical benefit.