Botox to Treat Sweating

In the last decade Botulinum toxin has become an option in the treatment of axillary sweating disorder. The treatment includes injections of Botulinum toxin in the axilla. Using a very fine needle the entire armpit is injected. Despite what the health care practitioners say, it is not a fun to have these injections. Botox acts by blocking release of secretions from the sweat glands. Rarely it is used to treat sweating around the palms or the face. When used in the hand area, it is not only painful but may temporarily paralyze small muscles of the hand.

After a few hours, one can resume daily living activities but all heavy exercises should be avoided for at least 24-48 hours.

Botox does not decrease sweating in everyone. Clinical data reveal that only 50-75% of individuals respond and the results are varied. Some people see a major reduction in sweat and others only see a mild effect.

Most people see a reduction in sweat in about 48 hours. If no effect has occurred by this time period, it is unlikely that Botox will work. The full effect of Botox takes up to 3-7 days. If Botox injections did not work the first time, do not be foolish and go to the same health care professional for a second attempt- unless you suspect that the individual who injected you was incompetent or if the Botox was fake/diluted.

Botox is not a cure for sweating and its effects wear off after a period of 4-10 months. Numerous injections (20-50) of the toxin are usually required. The treatments have to be repeated every 6-10 months. After the injections most individuals complain of flu like syndrome, which lasts a few days.

So far, no serious complications have been reported and it appears that Botox does provide temporarily relief from sweating in some lucky individuals.

The cost of Botox for treating sweating is variable and depends on how many injections you get and who does them. The average cost for Botox to treat sweating is anywhere from $400-$1,000. Physicians usually charge the higher number.

Final Word: Medicine and money have never been a great combination. There are now lots of people performing Botox injections. Besides health care professionals, there are a many other individuals who have no idea what is the meaning of the word sterility, performing these injections. In addition, there are a lot of reports of fake and diluted Botox being used. So in the end, remember the adage, “Buyer Beware” - seek a health care professional whom you can trust.