Dr. Kate Dee and Becky Hsiao discuss the recent headlines about fake Botox - “faux-tox” - sending patients to the hospital and the regulatory aspects of medical devices and pharmaceuticals. Becky, a regulatory attorney, explains the complexities of ensuring the safety and effectiveness of drugs and devices. Fake Botox cases have been reported in multiple states, causing harm to patients.. It is important to be cautious and seek treatment from licensed professionals. Counterfeit Botox is easily available online, with websites like Alibaba selling fake products.

The conversation discusses the high cost of Botox treatments and the prevalence of counterfeit and illegally imported Botox. Counterfeit products may contain higher concentrations of toxins than expected and can be dangerous, leading to botulism. Illegally imported products may have unknown storage conditions and expiration dates, posing safety risks.

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Takeaways

• Fake Botox has been making headlines recently, with many people being sickened with botulism. The incidents have been covered in the news, raising awareness about the dangers of fake Botox.

• It is important to be cautious and seek treatment from licensed professionals. Counterfeit Botox is readily available online, with websites like Alibaba selling fake products.

• Detecting counterfeit Botox can be challenging, as the packaging and colors may resemble the real product.

• Counterfeit products may contain higher concentrations of toxins than expected and can be dangerous, leading to botulism.

• Illegally imported products may have unknown storage conditions and expiration dates, posing safety risks.

• There is limited recourse for individuals who experience issues with their treatment using these products. There are instances where Botox is illegally imported or purchased

• This practice is not legal and can lead to complications. People buy fake Botox because it is cheaper than the real product.

• Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. It can paralyze the muscles in the body, including the diaphragm, leading to respiratory failure and death.Symptoms of botulism include heavy eyelids, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and  muscle weakness.

• Choose a qualified provider for cosmetic procedures

• Ensure the provider is operating legally

• Confirm the type of toxin being used. Check the vial for English labeling and holograms

• The FDA-approved toxins in the United States are Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, Daxxify, and Xeomin Pricing in the aesthetics industry can vary based on location and overhead costs.

• Extremely low prices may indicate subpar quality or unsafe practices.

• It is important to consider the qualifications and experience of the medical professionals providing the services.

• Having open and informative conversations with medical professionals can help make informed decisions about aesthetic treatments.

 

Chapters

 

00:00 Introduction and Background

07:09 Challenges in Detecting and Enforcing Against Counterfeit Botox

13:05 Seeking Treatment from Licensed Medical Professionals

20:56 Identifying Counterfeit Botox