Key Summary
- UKHSA warns of botulism cases linked to unlicensed Botox treatments, with 38 cases reported in six weeks
- Symptoms include drooping eyelids, breathing issues, and muscle weakness, which can take weeks to appear
- Only qualified professionals should give Botox, and treatment must be done in hospitals with anti-toxins
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a health warning over botulism caused by fake botox procedures.
Botulism is a potentially fatal condition occurring due to toxins released by Clostridium botulinum bacteria in the cosmetic jab.
Currently, 38 cases of iatrogen botulism is has been reported in the last six weeks across in England.
Investigations have proven that the usage of unlicensed botox products is causing this alarming situation.
"A number of individuals have presented with symptoms such as breathing difficulties after having cosmetic procedures involving botulinum toxin, which is best known by the brand name Botox,” informed UKHSA.
UKHSA has stressed the importance of ensuring the usage of licensed products by their practitioners.
Clinicians have also been advised to check for botulism in anyone showing symptoms after recent cosmetic procedures.
"This means that there are no safeguards to ensure products meet the MHRA's standards for quality and safety," Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
The symptoms of botulism are drooping eyelids, double or unclear vision, weakness in facial muscle, struggle in swallowing, slurred speech and difficulty in breathing.
These signs take up to four weeks to show up.
Botulism resulted by cosmetic procedures is rare, but possibly dangerous.
"It is caused by toxins produced by the bacterium clostridium botulinum. These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in Botox and similar products," said Dr Gauri Godbole, consultant medical microbiologist at UKHSA.
Anyone experiencing the symptoms of botulism are advised to immediately contact NHS 111 for support.
Hospitals must administer anti-toxin to patients.
"When these procedures go wrong, there is a risk of serious infections and permanent scarring, which is why only registered professionals like a doctor, a nurse or pharmacy prescriber should be prescribing
these treatments,” reminded Professor Meghana Pandit, co-national medical director surgery care at NHS England.
