February 9, 2010
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Drug Factsheets

 Health Home >> Related Medications 

Botox Cosmetic

(botulinum toxin type A (purified neurotoxin complex))

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

02243721 BOTOX COSMETIC 100U VIAL

How does Botox Cosmetic work? What will it do for me?

Botulinum toxin belongs to the class of medications called neuromuscular paralytic agents. It blocks the nerves that are responsible for muscle activity. For cosmetic purposes, it can be used to smooth out facial lines and wrinkles, such as those that form between the eyebrows, on the forehead, and around the eyes (crow's feet). It gives skin a smoother appearance by relaxing the muscles in the area where it was injected.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor.

How should I use Botox Cosmetic?

Botulinum toxin is available in injectable form. The injection will be given by a qualified health care professional. Botulinum toxin is always injected into a muscle.

The dose of medication required depends on the condition being treated and individual circumstances. More than one dose may be required, depending on the condition being treated. 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 that you keep appointments for the administration and follow-up of this medication.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Botox Cosmetic come in?

Botox Cosmetic is available in a vial containing 100 units of Clostridium botulinum toxin type A, 0.5 mg of albumin (human), and 0.9 mg of sodium chloride in a sterile, vacuum-dried form without a preservative.

The dried product should be stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C, or in a freezer at or below -5°C, and used within four hours after removal from the freezer. The dried product should be diluted with the supplied solution after removal from the freezer and kept in the refrigerator until used.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Botox Cosmetic?

Botulinum toxin should not be used by anyone who:

  • is allergic to botulinum toxin or to any of the ingredients of the medication
  • has an infection at the site the injection is to be given
  • with myasthenia gravis or Eaton Lambert syndrome

Continued... 1 | 2 | Next


Did you find what you were looking for on our website? Please let us know.

Bookmark and Share
Tell us what you think!  Rate this article:           PoorFairGoodVery goodOutstanding
Ad

The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and are meant to be discussed with your physician or other qualified health care professional before being acted on. Never disregard any advice given to you by your doctor or other qualified health care professional. Always seek the advice of a physician or other licensed health care professional regarding any questions you have about your medical condition(s) and treatment(s). This site is not a substitute for medical advice.

© 1996 - 2010 MediResource Inc. - MediResource reaches millions of Canadians each year.