String of negative reactions to aesthetics procedures prompts health chiefs to issue warning

A health warning has been issued after several people in the North East of England experienced adverse reactions to botulinum toxin, which is sometimes branded as Botox. An investigation is underway to establish whether the reactions have been caused by a counterfeit product.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been alerted to cases in County Durham where patients sought medical attention for reactions including severe eyelid drooping, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech, and lethargy. These symptoms reportedly emerged weeks after receiving the injections.

The UKHSA has advised clinicians to remain vigilant for signs of botulism in individuals who have recently undergone aesthetic procedures. Prompt identification is crucial to ensure timely treatment, which may involve administering an anti-toxin.

Dr Joanne Darke, consultant in health protection with the UKHSA, emphasised the seriousness of the condition, stating, "Botulism is a rare infection, but it can be serious."

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“It is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

“There are effective treatments available.

“If you have had a recent treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 or A&E for further advice and seek treatment.

“It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed. It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner.”

UK Botox trademark owners, Allergan Aesthetics, said it suspects the product is counterfeit. A company spokesperson said: “There is no evidence as to which product was used or if the product in question was a genuine product.

“Allergan Aesthetics an AbbVie company is the manufacturer and the sole owner of Botox trademark for United Kingdom.

“Allergan Aesthetics is aware of recent reports of suspected botulism in patients in County Durham & Darlington, UK who received injections of a product, being referred to as ‘botox’.

“Investigations are ongoing, and Allergan Aesthetics is working with the local authorities.

“Allergan Aesthetics suspect that the product administered is counterfeit, further underpinning the importance of ensuring you are acquiring a genuine product through reputable and trusted channels.

“Allergan Aesthetics’ priority is the health and safety of patients and all reports of counterfeit product are thoroughly investigated by our team and in conjunction with law enforcement and regulatory authorities.”

Amanda Healy, County Durham director of public health, said: “We are working closely with colleagues at UKHSA to investigate the cause of these adverse reactions and to ensure all possible steps are taken to prevent more people becoming unwell.”

People considering an aesthetic treatment are reminded that practitioners should wear protective equipment and wash their hands, should carry out a pre-consultation, should be prepared to share their qualifications and should require a consent form.

Earlier this year, a petition was launched to crack down on ‘unregulated’ cosmetic treatments like botulinum toxin and lip fillers. It was backed by Conservative MP Bradley Thomas who warned of an "emergent healthcare crisis" involving unregulated cosmetic treatments on high streets.

He told the Commons that the demand for non-surgical aesthetic treatments is being "partially fuelled by social media and societal pressures on young people".