Botox is most well-known for its ability to smooth skin, mitigate wrinkles and provide a more youthful appearance when applied by a skilled cosmetic surgeon or aesthetician.
However, Botox can do much more than just treat wrinkles and provide healthier, rejuvenated skin. Over the years, quite a few alternate uses for Botox have been discovered and approved by the FDA. Indeed, the company which created Botox holds nearly 300 different patents for uses of the drug.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at a few of the most surprising and useful alternate Botox treatments. Let’s begin!
Migraine Headaches
Chronic migraines are one of the most difficult medical issues to treat. Even today, many specialists are uncertain about the specific cause of migraine headaches. Migraines can be extraordinarily painful, leading to nausea, hypersensitivity to light and more.
However, Botox has been approved by the FDA for treatment of migraines. This began in 1992, when a surgeon in Beverly Hills noticed that patients who received cosmetic Botox treatment reported fewer headaches.
The FDA approved Botox for migraine treatments in 2010. While there is still some controversy over whether it’s truly effective or if it’s just a placebo, most patients report a reduction in chronic migraines when using Botox.
Migraine treatment with Botox is usually administered with about 30 shots in different places in the head and neck that are known to be common “trigger points” for migraines. The effects usually last around 3 months.
Excessive Sweating
Botox has an interesting side effect when administered to skin cells – it reduces the activity of the sweat glands. This was first noticed by doctors who were treating patients for facial spasms using Botox.
The FDA approved Botox for use to treat excessive sweating – also known as severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis – in 2004. Botox is often used in the underarms to reduce the severity of sweating, but it is also sometimes used to treat sweaty hands and feet.
Overactive Bladder
An overactive bladder can be a serious problem for both genders – but women are typically more affected by bladder hyperactivity, particularly during menopause and after pregnancy. An overactive bladder can have a serious negative effect on your day-to-day life and ability to travel, perform recreational activities, and more.
Because Botox temporarily paralyzes muscles that it comes into contact with, it’s a great way to control bladder hyperactivity. The Botox product is injected directly into the smooth muscles that are responsible for bladder hyperactivity. This reduces their ability to contract – thereby eliminating hyperactivity, while still preserving bladder function.
Botox has been FDA-approved for use as a treatment option for overactive bladders. It can treat symptoms such as needing to “go” too often, leakage and feelings of discomfort when the bladder feels excessively “full.”
Botox – It’s Not Just For Smoothing Wrinkles!
There are many alternate uses for Botox. Though it’s effective as a way to rejuvenate the skin, it can also be used for dozens of other conditions. At The Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery, we offer Botox treatments for a wide variety of different health issues.
You’ll be in good hands with Dr. Beverly Fischer – whether you need facial rejuvenation, treatments for migraines, or any other treatment.
