CDC Reports 22 Women Hospitalized with Severe Reactions to Counterfeit Botox Injections

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that 22 women in 11 U.S. states have been hospitalized with severe reactions after receiving counterfeit Botox injections from unlicensed providers in non-healthcare settings. The affected patients, ranging in age from 25 to 59, experienced symptoms such as blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and weakness.

Four people were treated for botulism due to concerns that the toxin had spread beyond the injection site, but all tested negative. The women received the injections in homes and spas, not from licensed medical professionals. The CDC, state and local health departments, and the FDA are investigating the reports to identify the sources of the counterfeit Botox.

Why this matters: This incident highlights the dangers of receiving medical treatments, particularly injectable procedures, from unlicensed providers in non-medical settings. It emphasizes the importance of seeking cosmetic treatments only from qualified healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and avoid potentially harmful counterfeit products.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that the counterfeit Botox may be misbranded, adulterated, contaminated, improperly stored, and unsafe. Experts advise patients to only receive Botox injections from licensed and board-certified dermatologists or other appropriately trained clinicians in a medical office, and to thoroughly research their provider to ensure they are reputable and comply with FDA guidelines.

The FDA has provided ways to identify counterfeit Botox, including checking the lot number, active ingredient, and language on the packaging. "The FDA advises patients to only receive Botox injections from licensed healthcare providers and to inspect the vial for any language other than English, which could indicate a counterfeit product," the agency stated.

As of April 18, 2024, the CDC investigation has found that all reports came from females aged 25 to 59, with 91% receiving the injections for cosmetic purposes. The CDC advises seeking healthcare providers for botulinum toxin injections and immediately seeking medical attention if experiencing symptoms of botulism. No deaths have been reported in connection with the counterfeit Botox injections, and the investigation is ongoing to identify the sources of the fake products.

Key Takeaways

• 22 women hospitalized with severe reactions from counterfeit Botox injections
• Injections received from unlicensed providers in non-healthcare settings
• Symptoms include blurred vision, swallowing issues, dry mouth, and weakness
• FDA warns counterfeit Botox may be misbranded, adulterated, and unsafe
• CDC advises seeking licensed providers for Botox and reporting symptoms