Waukeshahealthinsurance.com-
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People in at least two states have been hospitalized with a botulism-like illness after receiving nonmedically administered cosmetic injections, commonly known as “Botox.”
According to a statement issued by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Cosmetic injections must be an FDA-approved product, administered by licensed providers and in approved settings.” “The sources of these botulinum toxin products are currently unknown or unverified.”
However, an ongoing investigation involving the CDC, the US Food and Drug Administration and several states “suggests that the administered product is counterfeit,” the Tennessee Department of Health said in a statement. press release on friday.
Four cases have been reported in Tennessee, including two requiring hospitalization. Two patients were also hospitalized in Illinois.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins released by bacteria that attack the nervous system. Symptoms include blurred or double vision, droopy eyelids, trouble breathing, fatigue, slurred speech, or hoarseness. If left untreated, muscle paralysis can last from hours to days and can be fatal.
Clostridium botulinum bacteria is an ingredient found in Botox and similar cosmetic products, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The purified form of botulinum toxin is approved by the FDA for use by health care providers as a cosmetic treatment, he said. press release Published on Monday.
Laboratory-confirmed systemic complications following botulinum toxin cosmetic or medical injections are rare, the CDC said.
However, both patients in Illinois received injections from a nurse in La Salle County who was licensed but was “acting outside of her jurisdiction.” Tennessee also raised concerns about “injections given in nonmedical settings such as at home or beauty spas.”
“Illinois residents should exercise caution when considering cosmetic surgery,” said Dr. Sameer Vohra, director of the Illinois Department of Health, in a statement. “Receiving these treatments in unlicensed and unapproved settings can put you or your loved ones at serious risk for health problems. Please only seek cosmetic services under the care of professionals who are trained to perform these procedures and use FDA-approved products. If you are experiencing any health problems after a recent cosmetic treatment, please contact your health care provider immediately for help and assistance.
also contacted the FDA, but the agency did not comment on investigations.