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Fake Botox is poisoning cosmetic patients across the United States

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Several people have reported negative health reactions after being injected with botulinum toxin in the US. It’s a worrying trend that emphasizes the importance of finding reputable clinicians before getting any type of cosmetic work done.

A worrying trend is taking place across the US, raising the eyebrows of health officials and beauty practitioners alike.

At least 19 people have reported serious health reactions after being injected with botulinum toxin (the scientific name for Botox) in several US states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that nine individuals required hospitalisation as a result.

The affected patients – all female and between the ages of 25 to 59 – live in nine different states: Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Washington.

Though most patients sought out the injection for cosmetic purposes, they instead experienced a range of negative health symptoms including blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, shortness of breath, weakness, and difficulty lifting their head.

Four of the nineteen women were then treated for botulism – a dangerous and rare condition that attacks the body’s nerves – sparking concerns about the potential spread of the injection beyond the initial site.

At the moment, it is believed that the vials used were obtained from unlicensed sources, meaning they could’ve been counterfeit, contaminated, or ineffective. The CDC, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and local health departments are all leading investigations to find the source of these vials.

Is getting Botox dangerous?

Despite these worrying events, the FDA announced that they appear unrelated to the brand name Botox, which is manufactured by a registered pharmaceutical company.

It also reassured the public that authentic Botox, as well as other approved brands such as Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify, are safe and effective for their intended uses.

In the vast majority of cases, the risks of these injections are low when administered correctly by a suitably qualified practitioner – which is why potential patients should exercise caution before rushing out to visit an injector.

The last decade has seen a surge in demand for cosmetic injectables, which has in turn fuelled an underground market run by unlicensed and unqualified practitioners.

In these instances, low prices and the illusion of convenience lure in individuals who have often stumbled upon their services via advertising on social media platforms.

Visiting certified practitioners who operate within medical offices is always the best option (even if it is more expensive), as these clinicians are trained to mitigate risks and manage complications in the case that they arise.

They’re also legally required to adhere to FDA guidelines, ensuring that only authentic products sourced directly from manufacturers are used. Each one of these factors minimises the likelihood of encountering harmful, counterfeit substances and negative health reactions.

What’s taking place in the US is a reminder that we should prioritise safety and expertise in cosmetic procedures, even in light of ‘tweakments’ like Botox and filler becoming so normalised in today’s society.

Just as most people would seek out the most skilled surgeon for life-saving surgery, choosing a practitioner for cosmetic treatments should always be a carefully made decision.

Senior Writer & Media Coordinator London, UK

I’m Jessica (She/Her). Originally from Bermuda, I moved to London to get a Master’s degree in Media & Communications and now write for Thred to spread the word about positive social change, specifically ocean health and marine conservation. You can also find me dipping my toes into other subjects like pop culture, health, wellness, style, and beauty.  Follow me on Twitter, LinkedIn and drop me some ideas/feedback via email.

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