Botox^® is the commercialized trade name for Botulinum Toxin Type A. It is one of eight toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Originally studied as a form of food poisoning, research into Botox's effectiveness in treating muscle spasms began in 1973. Currently, the FDA has approved clinical use of the drug to treat strabismus (crossed eyes) and blepharospasm (involuntary spasms of the muscles around the eye). The use of Botox^® to treat facial wrinkles remains an "off-label" use of the drug. This means that Allergan, the maker of Botox^® , has not received FDA approval for the use of the drug for treating facial wrinkles, but physicians are allowed to use the drug for any use which is in the best interest of a patient.

"The clinical use of Botox^® represents one of the most dramatic role reversals in modern medicine: a potent biologic toxin transformed into a therapeutic agent." -Allergan Inc.

How Botox^® Works.
Very small quantities of Botox^® are injected directly into a facial muscle using a fine needle. The drug works by preventing the release of acetylcholine, a chemical that sends messages between nerve cells and muscle cells. The treated facial muscles then become temporarily paralyzed and weakened. As the muscles relax and "smooth out," virtually all noticeable lines will disappear.

		Botox: An Introduction
		The Consultation
		Before Treatment
		The Treatment
		After Treatment
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