CDC issues warning about fake or mishandled botox

BOSTON – The CDC has issued an advisory about the risks of fake or mishandled Botox after some people have gotten so sick they had to be hospitalized.

According to the CDC, between November and March, at least 22 females from 11 U.S. states reported harmful side effects after receiving Botox injections from unlicensed or untrained people or in non-healthcare settings like private homes or spas. 

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms have included blurry vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, weakness, and shortness of breath. 

Eleven patients required hospitalization, though fortunately, none have died. The government is working with the drug's manufacturer to identify and dispose of suspected counterfeit Botox products purchased from unlicensed sources. 

Experts say this should be a reminder that if you're going to get Botox injections, whether it's for cosmetic or non-cosmetic purposes, for example, to treat migraines, use a licensed practitioner who works out of a licensed healthcare setting. 

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• Health

Mallika Marshall, MD

Mallika Marshall, MD is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician who has served as the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. A practicing physician Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Dr. Marshall serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and practices at Massachusetts General Hospital at the MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center, where she is currently working on the frontlines caring for patients with COVID-19. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications (HHP), the publishing division of Harvard Medical School.

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