Botox is derived from Clostridium botulinum and is effective in reducing wrinkles and fine lines caused by age. It is also used to treat a host of medical conditions which involves muscular spasms and dystonias.

Despite its growing popularity, Botox has lately received some bad press, too. Admittedly, as with most other medications and treatment options, administration of Botox also can present certain side effects in certain people, at certain times. However, extrapolating a few isolated incidents and presenting it as an accurate representation of the whole, can be misleading.

Nausea, headaches and flu-like symptoms are the most common side effects that Botox injections have given rise to. Others have experienced drooping eyelids, double vision and unusual facial expressions. These symptoms are generally temporary in nature and have been rectified within a short time period.

Another complaint that Botox injections have given rise to is that it causes bruising at the injection site. However, this cannot be attributed to Botox itself, but to the method of administration. If the administrator/physician applies sufficient pressure at the injection site, this problem will be minimized or even rectified, automatically.

Also, there are certain groups of potential users that merit special attention, if the detrimental effects of Botox are to be minimised. Women who are pregnant or who breast feed should ideally postpone Botox treatments whenever possible. Similarly, previous users who have suffered from side effects, those allergic to the constituent ingredients of Botox, or even those who are prone to egg allergies, should inevitably mention their concerns to the physician prior to undergoing Botox treatment. Also, individuals who are taking medication or antibiotics to treat other ailments should be aware that contra-indications and reactions may set in; so once again discussing such issues with a trusted doctor, would indeed be productive.

When quantifying the dangers of Botox, it is important to note that the dose administered for cosmetic purposes is generally small, thus minimizing any adverse effects that a higher dose may foretell. However, Botox generally offers a temporary solution to cosmetic problems, so repeated doses need to be administered to maintain its efficacy. This may not be prudent in the long run, as the accumulated effect of injecting Botox every 4-6 months may aggravate certain adverse health conditions in some individuals.

When using Botox for medicinal purposes, special care needs to be exercised when administrating such injections to high risk groups; namely children, the elderly and those suffering from serious disease/diseases. Botox in high doses can sometimes be carried out to other parts of the body, and the results may include impacts such as muscle weakness, swallowing difficulties, pneumonia, speech disorders and breathing problems.

Expiration dates on Botox vials need to be displayed and adhered to, so as to minimize any adverse side effects that may otherwise occur if out-of date stock is inadvertently used. A simple check would go a long way in such instances, as negligence is not excusable, particularly in the field of medicine, as the possible consequences can be life threatening.

Botox has many benefits; otherwise it would not be in use today. Admittedly, its use gives rise to certain risks, too. Therefore, the importance of consulting a qualified physician needs to be re-iterated, as most of the complications, side effects and dangers Botox is said to hold can be minimized, if knowledge prudence and experience is applied.