The use of Botox injections is often considered as an option for individuals who are looking to treat axillary hyperhidrosis. Botox is a cosmetic drug administered via injection into the skin. It is most commonly known for treating muscle spasms, wrinkles, and fine lines in the face.

Botox works by blocking neural control from the secretion of chemicals that trigger sweat glands. It is made from a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The use of Botox to treat axillary hyperhidrosis should be questioned.

Here are five main reasons to avoid Botox and why it may not be a sound idea for the treatment.

#1 Safety

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that Botox and similar medications come with a black box label warning. This cautions individuals concerning the safety and potential complications that can occur if the toxin administered were to spread beyond the site of injection.

Even the manufacturer of Botox states the following: “It is not known whether BOTOX® is safe or effective for severe sweating anywhere other than your armpits.” This statement, although meant to infer its safety for axillary application, still creates a sense of doubt about the overall safety of Botox.

The toxin used to make Botox is the same one that causes life-threatening food poisoning called botulism. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised by medical professionals not to use Botox. Finally, there are many side effects that have been experienced by people who have used Botox. These include, but are not limited to headaches, muscle weakness, allergic reactions, nausea, vision problems, and pain.

#2. Effectiveness

Although the use of Botox can be effective, the problem is that it can take many injections in each armpit for it to work. Although people react differently, typically the effect will only last for 3 to 6 months.

Exercise and stress can also accelerate metabolism and the effects of Botox will fade faster. Besides the safety warnings made concerning Botox, it is typically advised that this method of treatment be used as the last line of defense.

#3. Cost

The cost of Botox treatment is quite substantial. Again, it can take several injections in each armpit for it to work. The typical cost of Botox, when factoring in the 100 units in total required to stop sweating, comes out to an average of $1000.

There may also be additional dermatologist fees upwards of $500. Therefore a session can range from $1000-$1500. When you factor in that the effect only lasts for 3 to 6 months then the price of Botox for axillary hyperhidrosis is quite significant.

#4. Pain, Discomfort, and Invasive application

Botox injections are quite invasive and can be painful. You can also create ongoing redness and discomfort at the injection site. It can create muscle weakness and loss of muscle control. Although Botox is injected into the axillary site, the effects can spread past the area and create even more discomfort throughout the body.

#5. Impractical and Inconvenient

Again, it is well known that Botox requires repeated and ongoing treatments. Aside from the cost, safety concerns, and side effects to consider having Botox treatments as part of someone's lifestyle is not practical. It takes time, scheduling, and lots of considerations. In an already hectic and stressful lifestyle, this option becomes inconvenient and a hassle.