Six people have fallen ill in two states – Tennessee and Illinois – due to what is believed to be counterfeit Botox injections. The injections were given in non-medical settings such as homes or cosmetic spas, and the products used are suspected to be counterfeit. This has led to a multistate outbreak of botulism-like illnesses, with symptoms including double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and difficulty breathing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reportedly planning a nationwide alert to notify clinicians of the potentially counterfeit Botox and advise them to be on the lookout for botulism-like illnesses. However, the CDC did not immediately respond to Ars’ request for information.
Botox is a regulated drug product that contains purified, controlled quantities of the botulinum neurotoxin, which is made by certain Clostridium bacterial species, especially Clostridium botulinum. The toxin causes muscle paralysis by blocking the release of a neurotransmitter. When people are exposed to the toxin from wound injections or by accidentally eating contaminated foods, it can lead to full paralysis, including in muscles used for breathing. However, the toxin can also be used safely for cosmetic procedures when well-regulated and approved doses are administered by licensed medical professionals.
The Tennessee Department of Health reported that all four cases were linked to injections given in non-medical settings such as homes or cosmetic spas, and the products used were of “unclear origin” and suspected to be counterfeit. The two people sickened in Illinois received injections from a nurse who was “performing work outside her authority,” and the products used were also suspected to be counterfeit.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director Sameer Vohra warned residents to exercise caution when considering cosmetic treatments, as receiving these treatments in unlicensed, unapproved settings can put them at serious risk for health problems. He advised that only licensed professionals trained to do these procedures and who use FDA approved products should be sought out for cosmetic services.
If you or someone you know has received cosmetic injections and is experiencing any health problems, it is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately for help and assistance. The CDC’s nationwide alert will likely provide more information on the situation and advise clinicians on how to identify and treat potential cases of botulism-like illnesses.