In this article we will discuss ways to prevent complications and adverse reactions with botulinum toxin type A for cosmetic use.
Step 1 know your medicines and how they work?
Botulinum Toxin for Cosmetic Use
There are three commercial brands botulinum toxin type Acurrently available. These are BOTOX, BOCOUTURE and AZZALURE. Please note the units and doses are not transferable with the different brands of botulinum toxin type A for cosmetic.
Understanding the mechanism of action is essential before treating a patient with botulinum toxins. This gives the practitioner the knowledge to understand how the toxin effects the neuromuscular transmission and release of acetylcholine. There are currently 22 major drug interactions with the botulinum toxin for cosmetic and a further 347 moderate interactions(1).
Many potential complications can be reduced by understanding the action of the toxin and any drug that will effect this mode of action.
Medicines that interact with botulinum toxins include:
- Muscle relaxants/anti-spasmodic
- Anti-histamines
- Anti-cholinergic (in many cold and flu medicines)
- Tricyclic anti-depressants
The British National Formulary (www.bnf.org) and drugs.com are a good resource for information about medicines.
The patient medical history must include questions regarding any medicine the patient has been taking prior to the treatment. The practitioner must identify any potential drug interactions and review further information then provide guidance. When identified proceed with caution some medicines such as muscle relaxants and anti-spasmodic drugs are deemed absolute contra indications.
In the next article we will review medical conditions that are contraindicated or have cautions associated with the treatment of botulinum toxin type a.
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KT Training and Dr Sotirios will be hosting a live seminar. This aims to teach practitioners how to reduce and manage many of the complications in aesthetic medicine. This will be conducted by web seminar. For tickets or more information email [email protected].

(1).ref:www.drugs.com

