What is a Neurotoxin?
When a patient hears about Botox, Dysport, or Jeuveau, which are botulinum toxin products, a legitimate concern is if they are at risk for potential toxicity due to the injectables. Even though Botulinum toxin sounds scary, there is no risk to the patient. Even if Botox or Jeuveau would be consumed orally it would take 2,500 to 3,000 units to have any adverse reaction. A typical cosmetic Jeuveau treatment would only be 30 to 50 units making this popular cosmetic procedure extremely safe.
These neurotoxins disable the nerve tissue that sends electrical impulses to make the muscle contract. After the effects of Botox, Jeuveau, and Dysport take effect the wrinkles will begin to smooth. The body will then slowly start to regenerate new nerve cells in the treated areas. That’s why the effects of this most common cosmetic procedure only last about three to four months. Cosmetic neurotoxins like Botox and Jeuveau don’t harm skin or muscle tissue, so patients don’t have to worry about permanently altering their appearance. If you don’t like the way Botox or Jeuveau looks on you, all you have to do is wait four to six months for your face will return to normal.
There’s no reason to fear the word “neurotoxin” as these compounds have a long history in the medical field. When used correctly, neurotoxins are safe and effective cosmetic improvement treatments. In fact, research started on these compounds in the late 1800s, when it was discovered that neurotoxins could reduce muscle spasms. Today, neurotoxins are used to treat different medical conditions, including involuntary facial spasms, migraine headaches, limb spasms, excessive sweating, strabismus (crossed or lazy eyes), bruxism, and TMJ pain.