Who is Dr Helen?

Understanding botulinum toxin

Botulinum toxin is a purified protein used in several different licensed brands, including Azzalure, Botox, Letybo, and Nuceiva. It works at the junction between nerve and muscle, temporarily reducing the release of a chemical messenger called acetylcholine, which relaxes the targeted muscle.

Depending on the area treated, this is sometimes used to address dynamic facial lines, jaw muscle tension associated with clenching or grinding, a gummy smile, migraine symptoms linked to muscle tension, and excessive underarm sweating. It is a prescription only medicine, and is only available following a face to face consultation with a qualified prescriber. Suitability is assessed individually and results vary between people.

Who this treatment may not be suitable for

As with any prescription medicine, some people are not suitable candidates. This is not an exhaustive list, and a full assessment of your medical history is carried out at consultation:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Known allergy to egg or lactose (present in some formulations), or to the botulinum toxin molecule itself

• Current infection at the proposed injection site

• Certain bleeding disorders, or use of medication such as aspirin, clopidogrel, or apixaban, which may increase the likelihood of bruising

• Current use of an aminoglycoside antibiotic, such as amikacin, gentamicin, neomycin sulfate, streptomycin, or tobramycin

• Certain neurological conditions, including but not limited to myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, ALS, or Parkinson's disease

• Autoimmune conditions, which should be discussed individually with your prescriber

This list is for general guidance only. A full assessment is carried out at your appointment, and advice is given based on your individual history.