At least 19 people in nine states have reported illnesses after receiving counterfeit or improperly handled Botox injections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Botox injections, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for reducing wrinkles, is FDA-approved despite containing the same toxin that causes botulism.
Health authorities are investigating reports of adverse reactions in people who received counterfeit or improperly administered Botox injections in non-medical settings.
Symptoms similar to botulism have been reported in nine people across nine states after receiving Botox injections in non-medical locations, such as homes or spas, by unlicensed or inadequately trained individuals.
The affected states are Florida, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. So far, four people have been hospitalized.
Investigations revealed that some individuals received injections with counterfeit products or from unverified sources. The origin of these products is still under investigation.
For more information on counterfeit products, including how to identify them, visit the FDA’s website.
The CDC reports that affected individuals have experienced:
- Blurred and double vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dry mouth
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Generalized weakness
If you have recently received a Botox injection and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
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