Makers of Botox and other similar drugs have been required by the Federal Drug Administration to issue stronger warnings about unapproved uses which may have potential health hazards.  Some uses such as treatment of muscle spasms, twitches and neck pain have been reported.

The danger lies in complications that could arise if the Botulinum toxin were to spread beyond the injection site and elsewhere into the body.  Children suffering from cerebral palsy were administered Botulinum toxin to treat the uncontrollable muscular spasms that are common with the disease.  Use of Botox in instances like these can result in the muscles necessary for swallowing and breathing to become paralyzed.  Other complications could include weakness of the muscles, loss of bladder control, problems with vision and even death.

The use of Botox has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of frown lines and wrinkles and muscle spasms in the feet, neck or eye.  It has also been approved for excessive sweating.  Of course, millions across the world, including many well known celebrities, have used Botox to take years off of their looks.  This works by freezing the muscles that are responsible for creating the lines and wrinkles.  If you have been injured by bad medical products, consider contacting a San Diego pharmaceutical liability lawyer.

Allergen, Solstice Neurosciences and Medicis, according to the FDA, need to place stronger warnings on their products stating the dangers of unapproved uses of Botox.  According to Allergen, who has released a statement about the safety and efficiency of Botox, reports are rare that the toxin spreads into the rest of the body from the injection site.  These rare side effects were reported when Botox was used in the legs of children who have Cerebral Palsy in order to treat spasticity.  Adults with neck spasms were also treated with the drug, and neither of these uses is approved by the FDA.

Doctors have prescribed drugs for purposes other than their intended use, which is allowed, so using drugs for unapproved purposes is not something new.  However, promoting an unapproved use of a drug is not allowed by companies according to the FDA.  Controversies surrounding Botox have been around ever since the drug came on the scene in the 1980’s, and there has not been any strong evidence that dangerous side effects have occurred.

The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of recalled products.  Serving Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside County, San Bernardino, Ventura & beyond. Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.