Using Botox to reduce armpit sweat
In 2004 Botox (onabotulinumtoxin A) was approved by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) for the treatment of severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis ( Armpit Sweat ). This is the technical term for excessive sweating of the underarms. So far it’s proven to be effective alternative when antiperspirants alone aren’t enough.
Allergan, the producers of Botox, have received FDA approvals to treat a total of eight separate medical conditions in the United States. The first such approval was granted in 1989, making Botox the most studied botulinum product in the world. To date, it’s been used to successfully treat millions of patients for a variety of conditions. These include:
- severe underarm sweating, known as primary axillary hyperhidrosis
- overactive bladder symptoms
- leakage of urine
- chronic migraine headaches
- muscle stiffness in the muscles of the elbow, wrist, fingers, thumbs, ankles, and toes.
- abnormal head position and neck pain due to cervical dystonia (CD) in people 16 years and older. CD is a form of chronic muscle weakness.
- certain conditions which affect the eye muscles, namely strabismus. This is more commonly known as “crossed eyes.”
- abnormal spasming of the muscles which control the eyelids.
Armpit Sweat
Botox has been approved in at least 20 countries for the treatment of some or all of these conditions.
The compound in Botox (Onabotulinumtoxin A) is a naturally occurring protein which is refined for medical use. It works by temporarily blocking the chemical messengers responsible for triggering the body’s sweat glands. By interrupting or stopping the secretion of these signal chemicals it’s possible to stop excessive sweating of the treated area. To control sweating Botox injections are placed just below the surface of the skin. By using shallow injections, Botox is concentrated in these targeted areas where it will retain its effectiveness for months. It doesn’t affect adjacent tissue and produces few (if any) side effects.
Are there any side effects of using botox for armpit sweat?
Botox injections can effectively reduce sweating in the armpits, there are potential side effects associated with this procedure.
The most common side effect of Botox for armpit sweat is temporary muscle weakness or paralysis in the treated area. This can cause a temporary decrease in arm strength or mobility, but it typically resolves within a few weeks as the effects of the toxin wear off. Other possible side effects include pain, bruising, or swelling at the injection site, which are generally mild and short-lived.
Less common but more serious side effects may include an allergic reaction to the toxin, resulting in symptoms such as itching, rash, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. In rare cases, the toxin may spread to nearby muscles, causing weakness or paralysis in unintended areas. However, these complications are infrequent when the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced healthcare professional.
It is important to note that individual experiences with Botox may vary, and it is advisable to consult a qualified medical professional to discuss potential side effects and determine if the treatment is suitable for you. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure the procedure is performed safely.
Am I allowed to go home after treatment?
Yes, in most cases, you are allowed to go home after receiving Botox treatment for armpit sweat. The procedure typically does not require an overnight stay or extensive recovery time. After the injections, you may experience some mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, but it should not prevent you from returning home. It is advisable to follow any post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional and contact them if you have any concerns or unusual symptoms following the procedure.
After receiving Botox treatment for armpit sweat, it is generally safe to resume your regular activities and go home without any significant restrictions or limitations.