People are buying fake designer handbags, knock off designer jewelry, counterfeit designer shoes but now they’re buying and selling fake botox. A fake Chanel bag couldn’t kill you but fake botox could. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is sending a very serious warning about fake versions of Botox that have already been found throughout the United States including California. Sadly but not unsurprisingly fake botox has lead to extremely adverse reactions for patients who have been injected with this counterfeit botox in nonmedical and unlicensed places. 

Thus far 15 people in nine different states have come forward with dangerous reactions after having been injected with the fake materials. Some of the symptoms being reported are muscle weakness, vision issues, unable to swallow, unable or labored speaking, difficulty breathing. Many of the patients that were injected with the counterfeit botox were diagnosed with Botulism also known as Botox poisoning. Symptoms of side effects of being injected with actual botox are temporary bruising, swelling, redness, and acute pain of the injection site. Rare but more serious side effects could include dropping eyes, muscle weakness or an allergic reaction. For the more serious side effects please immediately call your injector as well as seek medical treatment. 

With any treatment whether it be a facial, eyebrow waxing or botox injections there is always a slight risk involved with potential side effects which is why it is extremely important to ensure you are being treated by a licensed professional with genuine product straight from the manufacturer. Please always connect with your provider if you wish to ask more questions about injectables before you proceed so you feel fully informed and confident.