Despite being one of the most potent neurotoxins on the planet, BOTOX® Cosmetic is actually very safe. There has not been a single death reported from the directed cosmetic use of botulinum toxin by a qualified medical professional. There...

are certain risks to consider, however, before subjecting yourself to this procedure. Since BOTOX® works by destroying one of the proteins that is critical for neurotransmission (the process by which nerves stimulate muscles), if you currently have or have had a disease that affects neurotransmission, you may not want to use this agent for cosmetic purposes. Examples of some relevant neuromuscular diseases are amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease), myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome and perhaps Guillain-Barré syndrome. In patients that suffer from these diseases, there have been cases reported in the medical literature that describe rather severe reactions. Apparently, patients with these diseases are particularly sensitive to the toxin.

Notify the doctor that is performing this procedure if you have a history of heart disease. Botulinum toxin can affect the heart if a sufficient amount is absorbed into the bloodstream. Also, if you have uncontrolled diabetes or a disorder that affects blood-clotting or wound healing, tell your doctor. These diseases must be considered when anyone is about to have multiple skin injections. For the vast majority of patients these diseases will not lead to poor outcomes or adverse events, but all of this information needs to be brought to the attention of the doctor performing the procedure.