The Irish Medicines Board (IMB) has expressed concern about the possible misuse of the medicinal product Botox.
The Board warned the product, which contains a potent neurotoxin, ishighly dangerous if administered by unauthorised people.
Botox is primarily used in the treatment of severe musculardisorders. But an investigation by the IMB found a number ofbeauty salons, cosmetic clinics and private individuals weresupplying and administering Botox as an injectable cosmetic treatmentfor wrinkles.
In a statement the board said: "Botox, or any of the other marketed clostridium botulinumtoxins are not authorised for cosmeticuse and their safety under these conditions has not been established."
It said: "Unauthorised persons engaged in this activity are incontravention of the medicinal products regulations. Any suchbusiness and/or unauthorised individuals will be liable forprosecution under the Irish Medicines Board Act 1995."
If misused Botox can cause eyelid weakness, weakness in facial muscles, visual disturbance and corneal ulceration.
In some cases it has beenassociated with adverse cardiovascular effects including heart rhythmabnormalities and heart attacks. It has also been reported to causesevere allergic reactions.