Botulism is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that needs immediate hospital treatment
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is strengthening safety warnings to highlight the risk of botulism caused by medical treatment more clearly. Botulism is caused by the botulinum toxin that’s commonly used in medical and cosmetic procedures for things like treating migraines and facial wrinkles.
The toxin is used in these procedures to relax the targeted muscles. However, in rare cases the toxin starts attacking the nervous system, leading to paralysis that can spread across the body and even affect the muscles used to breath if it’s not treated in time. This is botulism.
Symptoms of botulism according to the NHS:
- blurred or double vision
- drooping eyelids
- difficulty swallowing and speaking
- weak muscles, particularly in your face
- constipation
- dry mouth
The MHRA update notes: “Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms after treatment, including difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, breathing difficulties, or muscle weakness. These symptoms can occur within days or up to four weeks after treatment.”
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said: “Botulinum toxin products are effective for a number of different medical and cosmetic purposes when used correctly. However, these strengthened warnings are an important reminder that, in rare cases, serious side effects can occur.
“It is vital that healthcare professionals and patients are aware of the symptoms of botulism and act quickly if they arise as this is a medical emergency. We also strongly urge the public to avoid unlicensed products and seek treatment only from appropriately qualified practitioners.
“The MHRA continuously monitors the safety of these medicines, including side effects and emerging evidence.” Botulism is treated in hospital with medications through an IV to stop symptoms getting worse and continuing normal functions for your body until it can recover, such as using a ventilator to help you breathe.
If treated quickly, people can recover but the medication cannot treat muscle weakness or paralysis that has already happened. These symptoms may improve over time according to the NHS but it can take up to a year fo rbreathing problems to get better.
Long-term issues from botulism include:
- feeling very tired
- getting out of breath easily
- finding it hard to lift things
- struggling with mental wellbeing
The MHRA also warned about the dangers of unlicensed practitioners and counterfeit products as these can significantly increase the risk of serious side effects. The NHS provides guidance on how to check if the clinic and practitioners are registered and red flags people should avoid when booking cosmetic procedures.
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