The FDA is currently investigating a concerning outbreak of botulism-like illnesses in multiple U.S. states linked to Botox injections. At least six individuals in Illinois and Tennessee have fallen ill after receiving potentially counterfeit injections of the botulinum toxin.
In Illinois, two people became sick and required hospitalization after receiving injections from a licensed nurse without proper authorization. The CDC has noted that these injections were performed in “non-medical” settings, and the sources of the products used are either unknown or unverified.
It is important to note that only AbbVie and Allergan Aesthetics are authorized suppliers of Botox. Recent reports of potential botulism cases have involved products suspected to be counterfeit. Botox, a popular drug approved for cosmetic use to smooth wrinkles and create a more youthful appearance, typically costs around $530 per injection on average.
Botulism is a serious illness caused by a toxin that can result from untreated wounds or transmission through food. Iatrogenic botulism, specifically caused by excessive exposure to the botulinum toxin, is rare but can occur after cosmetic or therapeutic injections. Health experts recommend that individuals only receive injections involving an FDA-approved product administered by a licensed provider.
The FDA is strongly urging individuals who experience adverse effects from Botox injections or healthcare providers who encounter patients with adverse effects to report them to the FDA MedWatch reporting program. This outbreak comes as federal officials have previously intercepted unregulated Botox and other cosmetic treatments shipped from various countries. It is crucial to prioritize safety and caution when seeking out cosmetic procedures involving Botox injections.
