CDC investigating tainted Botox injections in Florida, 8 other states

CDC investigating tainted Botox injections in Florida, 8 other states

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures to erase wrinkles. The use of Botox is approved by the FDA, even though it’s made from the same toxin that causes botulism.

The CDC and FDA are investigating reports of harmful reactions among people who received injections of counterfeit or mishandled Botox.

Botulism-like illnesses from Botox injections given at non-medical settings have been reported, in nine people from nine states. Those individuals reportedly received Botox injections from unlicensed or untrained individuals or in non-health care settings, such as homes and spas.

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The impacted states are Florida, Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The CDC said at least four people have been hospitalized.

Public health and regulatory officials have found that some people received injections with counterfeit products or products with unverified sources. The investigation into the sources of these products is ongoing.

More information about the counterfeit products, including signs of counterfeit versions, may be found on FDA’s website.

The CDC says people have reported experiencing:

  • Blurry vision and double vision

  • Drooping eyelids

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Dry mouth

  • Slurred speech

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Fatigue

  • Generalized weakness

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