For decades now, neurotoxin injectables like Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport have been used as go-to wrinkle reducers, and our team at Fundamentals Med Spa of Indianapolis, IN is no exception. Crow’s feet, glabellar lines, bunny lines, neck bands, you name it—these injectables have more than proved their mettle as effective treatments for these and other issues.
But while the majority of the publicity surrounding these aesthetic industry staples have centered on the above applications, they have quietly been addressing a number of medical issues in the background.
In this guide, we will cover the most common medical applications of Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport, including guidance on how to choose the right injectable, safety information, and more.
Medical Applications of Neurotoxin Injectables
Botox, Xeomin, and Dysport use bacteria-derived neurotoxins like Clostridium botulinum to block the transmission of nerve signals to muscle tissue. Unlike Morpheus8 RF Microneedling and similar treatments, which stimulate collagen production to smooth the skin, neurotoxins temporarily paralyze the muscle(s). No longer able to contract, the targeted muscles remain relaxed, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles (those formed from repeated muscle contractions).
As mentioned, this ability of neurotoxin injections to provide complete and prolonged muscle paralysis has found several key applications in the medical field, including the following.
Cervical Dystonia and Blepharospasm
A functionally limiting and often painful neurological disorder characterized by involuntary spasms of the neck muscles, cervical dystonia is often treated by botulinum toxin injections. To be clear, neurotoxin injections do not cure cervical dystonia, but can provide long-term relief by preventing the spasms and allowing the head to rest in a more natural position for extended periods of time.
Blepharospasm is another form of dystonia, in this case affecting the eyelids, that can be treated by neurotoxin injectables. It may not sound like much on paper, but constant eyelid spasms can cause eye irritation, increased light sensitivity, and even inability to open the eyes in more severe cases.
Chronic Migraine
Dysport, Xeomin, and Botox can all be used to treat chronic migraine, and have in fact elevated chronic migraine treatment with their consistent effectiveness. The FDA-approved indication specifically targets adult patients who have migraines occurring more than 15 days a month and for more than 4 hours a day.
While migraines can be caused by blood vessel dilation, poor posture, dehydration, and a few other factors, many cases are brought on by too much tension in the head, neck, and shoulder muscles. Hence, neurotoxin injectables can provide significant symptom relief.
Adult Bladder Dysfunction
Typically, adults with overactive bladder are treated with medications that use similar mechanisms to neurotoxin injectables (i.e., interfering with nerve signal transmission). However, if a given patient is ineligible or does not respond well to medication, neurotoxin injectables can effectively treat urinary incontinence by relaxing the bladder.
Axillary Hyperhidrosis
The technical term for excessive sweating from the armpit, Botox and Xeomin have both been approved by the FDA to treat axillary hyperhidrosis. Once injected, the neurotoxin prevents the sweat glands from receiving the nerve signal to continue overproducing sweat.
Off-Label Uses
Using a product “off label” means using it in a scenario not explicitly approved by the FDA. For example, several of the most popular weight loss injectables on the market today are FDA-approved to treat type II diabetes. In the case of neurotoxin injectables, off-label uses include the following:
- Post-stroke pain
- Tennis elbow
- Nerve pain
- Spinal cord injury symptoms
- Myofascial pain
- Diabetic neuropathy
Throughout this diverse range of medical issues, one theme stands out as it concerns the application of neurotoxin injectables: relieving spasticity and associated pain.
Neurotoxin Injectable Safety and Side Effects
Medical usage of Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin is associated with a higher incidence of adverse effects than cosmetic usage, likely because the dosages required to alleviate medical concerns are higher. Still, as treatment approaches are refined, adverse effects continue to decrease in frequency.
Among the most commonly reported adverse effects following neurotoxin injection include bruising at the injection site, pain, and flu-like symptoms. Allergic reactions are very rare, as are drooping eyelids and/or eyebrows.
Importantly, many of the adverse events—especially the rare and more severe issues—are attributed to the injector. This underscores the importance of only partnering with well-experienced, licensed practitioners.
How to Choose the Right Neurotoxin
While Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin all produce similar results in most aesthetic and medical applications, each is still a unique formula. This can affect how long they last, how well they treat specific issues, how they are tolerated by the body, and more.
For example, Botox is more potent than Dysport, rendering it more effective for treating more advanced cases of fine lines. Dysport, on the other hand, has a lighter molecular weight, and is easier to apply over a larger area. Xeomin is unique in its purity, containing only the neurotoxin without accessory proteins. This makes it less likely to trigger allergic reactions and immune resistance.
Ultimately, choosing the best neurotoxin is an effort best undertaken on a case-by-case basis with a licensed professional. At Fundamentals Med Spa, we will weigh and balance your unique health status, presentation, and expectations of treatment to make a well-informed recommendation on the best treatment(s) for you.
Choose Fundamentals Med Spa for Industry-Leading Neurotoxin Injection Treatments
As veteran providers with over 50 combined years of experience working within various aesthetics specialties and treatments, including CoolTone, CoolSculpting, HydraFacial and more, the Fundamentals Med Spa team is here to deliver you a memorable, patient-centered experience.
Our passion is helping others bring their visions of enhanced beauty and overall wellness to life with a full menu of safe and effective treatments, including neurotoxin injections.
Contact our team for a consultation today and find the results you’re looking for.