Botulinum Toxin Patient Information
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What is Botulinum Toxin?
Botulinum toxin is a naturally occurring protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. In a purified form, (as is the case with many drugs/medications), Botulinum toxin is a very safe, effective treatment not only used in cosmetic clinics, but also for a number of medical conditions, including migraine and excessive sweating.
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All botulinum toxins are prescription only medicines (POM) and can only be prescribed by doctors, dentists and nurses (if holding a prescribing qualification or working under alongside a prescribing professional, i.e. doctor/dentist), following a face to face assessment and consultation with the qualified prescriber.
Botox® is a licensed brand of Botulinum toxin A. Other licensed brands include Azzalure®, Dysport®, Xeomin® Bocouture®.
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How Does it Work?
The toxin blocks the transition of chemical messages from the nerve to the muscle so that the muscle stays in a resting state for a period of 8 to 12 weeks on average.
This may be only a partial reduction in movement allowing some remaining movement or a full block in which case there is very little remaining muscular movement in the area – this very much depends on the amount administered and location of product placement – treatment may be tailored to suit your individual requirements. Your expected treatment outcomes and whether they can be achieved will be discussed at the time of consultation.