Botox is derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and it is found in many natural settings, including soil, lakes, and forests. Botulinum toxin is predominantly used as a treatment to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines by paralyzing the underlying muscles. Beyond aesthetic applications, Botox is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including eye squints, migraines, excess sweating, and leaky bladders.
Botulinum toxin can be injected into humans in extremely small concentrations and works by preventing signals from the nerve cells reaching muscles, therefore paralyzing them. In order for muscles to contract, nerves release a chemical messenger, acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter), at the junction where the nerve endings meet muscle cells. Acetylcholine attaches to receptors on the muscle cells and causes the muscle cells to contract or shorten. Injected botulinum toxin prevents the release of acetylcholine, preventing contraction of the muscle cells. Botulinum toxin causes a reduction in abnormal muscle contraction, allowing the muscles to become less stiff.
Medication Forms
Each sterile vial contains 50, 100, or 200 Allergan units of vacuum-dried Clostridium botulinum toxin type A. Nonmedicinal ingredients: human serum albumin and sodium chloride. No preservatives.
Using the Medication
The dose of medication required depends on the area being treated and individual circumstances. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. It is important to receive this medication exactly as recommended by your qualified doctor in New Jersey. If you miss an appointment to receive botulinum toxin type A (purified neurotoxin complex), contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment. It is very important to keep your appointments for treatment and follow-up
Procedure
Getting Botox takes only a few minutes and doesn't require anesthesia. Botox is injected with a fine needle into specific muscles with only minor discomfort. It generally takes three to seven days to take full effect, and it is best to avoid alcohol starting at least one week before the procedure. You should also stop taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before treatment to reduce bruising.
The effects from Botox will last three to four months. As muscle action gradually returns, the lines and wrinkles begin to reappear and need to be treated again. The lines and wrinkles often appear less severe with time because the muscles are being trained to relax.
