In 2012, there were over 6 million BOTOX procedures, in the U.S. As evidenced, all around the world, BOTOX remains the #1 non-invasive cosmetic procedure for frown lines, creases in the forehead and, with its recent FDA approval, for crow’s feet around the eyes. No wonder BOTOX L.A. and BOTOX Beverly Hills has maintained its popularity.
However, as we noted in several other articles, there are more than 90 patents or patents pending for other important medical uses of the drug. According to manufacturer, Allergan, in addition to the FDA’s approval for BOTOX in the treatment of migraine headaches, future approvals may be coming in the treatment of muscle spasms, excessive sweating, swallowing difficulties, benign enlarged prostate, stroke-related impediments and many other medical conditions.
Most recently, January, 2013, BOTOX was FDA-approved in the treatment of an overactive bladder. While both men and women may experience this condition, also known as “incontinence,” it reportedly affects one out of five older women. Simply stated, an overactive bladder occurs when the bladder muscle contracts, on its own, without warning.
The BOTOX injections are given, with anesthesia, directly into the bladder wall to relax the bladder muscle and prevent the involuntary contractions from occurring. In clinical studies, it was shown that BOTOX bladder treatments are as effective as daily oral medication, have resulted in up to 50% fewer “accidents” a day.
As with any medical procedure, there could be side effects, such as some difficulty in urinating or an occasional bladder infection, depending upon the individual.
Urinary incontinence is a serious medical condition and BOTOX might be a welcome choice for reducing the problem.
