Botulinum toxin
Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a poison produced by a certain type of bacteria (Clostridium botulinum). It is the same poison that causes a type of food poisoning (botulism).
Small amounts of the toxin may be injected to weaken or relax muscles that are in spasm or are contracting uncontrollably, such as spasms in the eyelids or in the lower esophagus. It also may be used to rejuvenate the aging face by temporarily weakening or paralyzing the muscles, which has the effect of smoothing or eliminating wrinkles in the skin. The effect usually wears off within a few months. When injected in small amounts into muscles, the toxin does not get into the person's bloodstream and cause illness.
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | James D. McMahan, MD, FACS - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery |
| Last Updated | August 25, 2006 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise