CDC issues health advisory about risks of counterfeit or mishandled Botox injections

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a warning about the dangers of counterfeit or mishandled Botox injections. Several incidents have been reported across multiple states, where individuals experienced harmful reactions after receiving fake Botox from unlicensed providers or in non-medical settings. Although 11 patients were hospitalized, there have been no reported deaths. Symptoms included blurred vision, drooping eyelids, dry mouth, slurred speech, and fatigue. Health authorities are investigating these incidents, which appear to be linked to illegally purchased and administered products. The CDC advises medical professionals to only administer licensed and approved botulinum toxin in regulated healthcare settings. Authentic Botox can be identified through specific packaging elements.