The Medicine
Botox® (botulinum toxin type A) is a purified neurotoxin used to treat muscle spasticity.
Following the Procedure
There are no restrictions following the injections. Your child may return to normal activities immediately. Depending on the goals after injection, the doctor may order serial casts or may ask for changes in your child’s physical therapy program. Your child may bathe, swim and perform any usual activity.
What About the Side Effects?
Dry mouth is the side effect most often reported with Botox®. Patients also have reported flu-like symptoms.
Changes in Muscle Strength
Changes will usually begin to occur after 48 hours and will reach maximum effect in 7 to 10 days. Because the change is gradual, most people have no major difficulty adjusting to the change. During this time, there will be no activity restrictions. Your doctor will order temporary changes in physical or occupational therapy programs, if needed.
Questions or Problems
Contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890 if any of the following conditions are present:
- Profound weakness
- Difficulties with swallowing or breathing
- Fever over 101.5 F
- Throat irritation
- Severe pain
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.