Noah McCrory
Dangerous counterfeit versions of botulinum toxin — better known as Botox — are being linked to an outbreak that has sickened 22 people in 11 states and caused multiple hospitalizations, federal safety officials warn.
On a alert issued Tuesday to doctors, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday that counterfeit and unsafe versions of Botox were administered by unlicensed or untrained individuals in non-healthcare settings such as homes or spas.
As of Thursday, 22 people with adverse effects had been reported in California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, Texas and Washington, the CDC said. Symptom onset varied from November 4, 2023 to March 31, 2024.
People have reported experiencing symptoms of botulism, including blurred or double vision, droopy eyelids, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, slurred speech, difficulty breathing and fatigue.
US Food and Drug Administration
The Food and Drug Administration is working with Botox manufacturer AbbVie to identify, investigate and remove suspected counterfeit Botox products found in the US. Currently, there is nothing to indicate that the illnesses are linked to the company’s FDA-approved Botox, the genuine product being safe and effective for its approved uses, the FDA noted.
US Food and Drug Administration
“In partnership with public health authorities, we have confirmed the safety of our Botox and Botox cosmetics supply chain, as well as the safety, quality and efficacy of all products we manufacture and distribute,” said Allergan, a subsidiary of AbbVie, to CBS MoneyWatch.
How to Avoid Fake Botox
If you are considering Botox for medical or cosmetic reasons, the CDC advises asking whether the provider, clinic or spa is licensed and trained to administer the injections and whether the product is FDA approved and purchased from a reputable source. Some states have a lookup tool that can be used to check licensure, according to the agency.
Anyone who has concerns should not receive the shot and anyone experiencing symptoms of botulism should seek medical attention or go to the emergency room immediately, the CDC said.
Approved for cosmetic use for over 20 years, Botox is popular medication to smooth wrinkles and look younger, with injections typically costing about $530, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The effects of one injection last an average of three to four months, so additional injections are necessary to remain wrinkle-free.
Federal authorities have already cracked down on unregulated Botox and other cosmetic treatments. In 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Ohio intercepted such fillers which were sent from Bulgaria, China, Korea and Spain.
