The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings to 18 companies for illegally selling counterfeit or misbranded products claiming to contain botulinum toxin, the active ingredient in Botox. This action follows an investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that revealed severe health complications in individuals who received these unauthorized injections.
Public health officials reported 17 cases of adverse reactions across nine states, including symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty swallowing, and slurred speech. In a statement, FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary emphasized the health risks associated with unapproved Botox products, stating, “Today we’re taking action to protect American consumers and prevent online entities from selling these dangerous products.”
Health Risks of Counterfeit Botox
Botox and similar neurotoxin products are only available through licensed medical professionals. These injections work by blocking the release of specific neurotransmitters, temporarily paralyzing muscles. While legitimate Botox is widely used for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing wrinkles, it is also effective for medical conditions like migraines. The FDA warns that products sold online may be counterfeit or mislabeled, posing significant health risks to consumers.
Some of the companies cited in the warnings sold Innotox, often referred to as “Korean Botox” on social media. Earlier reports highlighted a trend of individuals self-injecting Innotox purchased online, often without any medical oversight. These products tend to be cheaper than legitimate Botox, and misleading social media claims suggest they can be injected safely without professional assistance.
Board-certified dermatologists have repeatedly cautioned against this practice. Dr. Evan Rieder, a dermatologist and psychiatrist, noted the dangers of improper injections, stating, “If there is actually botulinum toxin in the product and you’re just injecting it into the wrong places, you could have facial muscle weakness or facial muscle paralysis.” These adverse effects can take time to manifest, sometimes appearing after several injections, and can last for months.
The Dangers of Self-Administration
Registered nurse Molly O’Rourke explained the potential severity of these complications, saying, “You could think that you’re in the clear and then all of a sudden, you can’t open one of your eyes.” At the most severe end, Dr. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist, warned that excessive botulinum toxin could lead to flaccid paralysis, affecting vital muscles, including those necessary for breathing.
When individuals receive injections from qualified medical professionals, these experts can take appropriate actions to mitigate any negative effects. Conversely, those who purchase neurotoxin products online may find themselves without help if complications arise.
The FDA’s recent actions serve as a critical reminder for consumers about the risks associated with counterfeit medical products. Anyone considering cosmetic procedures should always consult licensed healthcare providers to ensure their safety and the efficacy of the treatments they receive.
