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BOTOX Cosmetic

onabotulinumtoxinA · Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution

Prescription Biologic BLA Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
BOTOX Cosmetic
Generic name
onabotulinumtoxinA
Dosage form
Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution
Route
Intramuscular
Marketing category
BLA · BLA
Labeler
Allergan, Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
2
NDC product codes
2
Packages
4
Data completeness
74% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Botulinum Toxin Type A 100 [USP'U]/1 860192 View
Botulinum Toxin Type A 50 [USP'U]/1 860192 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, for Solution
Route of administration
Intramuscular
Presentations
6

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Acetylcholine Release Inhibitor [EPC] EPC 6 members — no class page
Acetylcholine Release Inhibitors [MoA] MoA 6 members — no class page
Neuromuscular Blockade [PE] PE All 24 members
Neuromuscular Blocker [EPC] EPC 5 members — no class page

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
103000
Application type
BLA · Biologics License Application
Approval date
December 9, 1991
Sponsor
ALLERGAN
Products on application
5
Submissions recorded
60
Products approved under application 103000.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
103000-001 BOTOX VIAL OnabotulinumtoxinA Prescription —
103000-002 BOTOX VIAL OnabotulinumtoxinA Prescription —
103000-003 BOTOX VIAL OnabotulinumtoxinA Prescription —
103000-004 BOTOX COSMETIC VIAL OnabotulinumtoxinA Prescription —
103000-005 BOTOX COSMETIC VIAL OnabotulinumtoxinA Prescription —

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 103000.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 5331 Efficacy Approved October 18, 2024 Standard
Supplement 5326 Labeling Approved October 18, 2024 Standard
Supplement 5323 Labeling Approved October 18, 2024 Standard
Supplement 5319 Labeling Approved October 18, 2024 Standard
Supplement 5316 Labeling Approved October 18, 2024 Standard
Supplement 5325 Efficacy Approved August 11, 2023 Standard
Supplement 5327 Labeling Approved August 10, 2023 Standard
Supplement 5322 Labeling Approved August 22, 2022 Standard
Supplement 5320 Efficacy Approved July 28, 2021 Standard
Supplement 5318 Efficacy Approved February 9, 2021 Standard
Supplement 5317 Labeling Approved September 13, 2020 Standard
Supplement 5315 Efficacy Approved July 8, 2020 Standard
Supplement 5310 Efficacy Approved October 18, 2019 Standard
Supplement 5309 Efficacy Approved June 20, 2019 Priority
Supplement 5308 Efficacy Approved September 12, 2018 Standard
Supplement 5306 Labeling Approved May 16, 2018 Standard
Supplement 5307 Labeling Approved May 15, 2018 Standard
Supplement 5303 Efficacy Approved October 2, 2017 Standard
Supplement 5302 Labeling Approved April 20, 2017 Standard
Supplement 5298 Efficacy Approved April 4, 2017 Standard
Supplement 5297 Efficacy Approved April 4, 2017 Standard
Supplement 5296 Efficacy Approved April 4, 2017 Standard
Supplement 5294 Efficacy Approved February 4, 2016 Standard
Supplement 5252 Efficacy Approved January 21, 2016 Standard
Supplement 5292 Labeling Approved August 11, 2015 Standard
Supplement 5244 Labeling Approved August 5, 2015 Standard
Supplement 5282 Efficacy Approved April 17, 2015 Standard
Supplement 5280 Labeling Approved May 7, 2014 Standard
Supplement 5260 Efficacy Approved September 11, 2013 Standard
Supplement 5251 Efficacy Approved January 18, 2013 Standard
Supplement 5253 Labeling Approved November 9, 2012 Standard
Supplement 5256 Labeling Approved July 16, 2012 Standard
Supplement 5232 Efficacy Approved August 24, 2011 Standard
Supplement 5236 Supplement Approved June 23, 2011 —
Supplement 5215 Efficacy Approved October 15, 2010 Standard
Supplement 5219 Supplement Approved June 3, 2010 —
Supplement 5129 Efficacy Approved March 26, 2010 Standard
Supplement 5120 Labeling Approved March 26, 2010 Standard
Supplement 5189 Efficacy Approved March 9, 2010 Priority
Supplement 5197 Supplement Approved August 21, 2009 —
Supplement 5210 Labeling Approved July 31, 2009 Standard
Supplement 5209 Labeling Approved July 31, 2009 Standard
Supplement 5184 Supplement Approved August 6, 2008 —
Supplement 5171 Supplement Approved March 21, 2008 —
Supplement 5165 Supplement Approved September 6, 2007 —
Supplement 5160 Supplement Approved August 23, 2007 —
Supplement 5159 Supplement Approved June 18, 2007 —
Supplement 5156 Supplement Approved April 26, 2007 —
Supplement 5151 Supplement Approved March 1, 2007 —
Supplement 5148 Supplement Approved September 28, 2006 —
Supplement 5144 Supplement Approved August 17, 2006 —
Supplement 5122 Supplement Approved November 10, 2005 —
Supplement 5101 Supplement Approved April 14, 2005 —
Supplement 5097 Supplement Approved March 11, 2005 —
Supplement 5092 Labeling Approved February 1, 2005 Standard
Supplement 5083 Labeling Approved July 19, 2004 Standard
Supplement 5050 Efficacy Approved July 19, 2004 Standard
Supplement 5000 Efficacy Approved April 12, 2002 Standard
Supplement 1004 Efficacy Approved December 21, 2000 Unknown
Original application 1 Type 1 - New Molecular Entity Approved December 9, 1991 Unknown

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 23, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · November 2, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 17, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 17, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 14, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 11, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · August 29, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · August 25, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · July 29, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · July 28, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · February 10, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · February 9, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · September 14, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · December 12, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · October 22, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · June 21, 2019
  • 0 · Supplement · June 21, 2019

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20241018). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20241018

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: DISTANT SPREAD OF TOXIN EFFECT Postmarketing reports indicate that the effects of BOTOX Cosmetic and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. These may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, particularly in those patients who have an underlying condition that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses and in approved indications, cases of spread of effect have been reported at doses comparable to those used to treat cervical dystonia and spasticity and at lower doses. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] WARNING: DISTANT SPREAD OF TOXIN EFFECT See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. The effects of BOTOX Cosmetic and all botulinum toxin products may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity but symptoms can also occur in adults, particularly in those patients who have an underlying condition that would predispose them to these symptoms. ( 5.2 )

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 10/2024 Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 2.4 ) 10/2024

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) is indicated in adult patients for the temporary improvement in the appearance of: • moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity • moderate to severe lateral canthal lines associated with orbicularis oculi activity • moderate to severe forehead lines associated with frontalis muscle activity • moderate to severe platysma bands associated with platysma muscle activity BOTOX Cosmetic is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent indicated in adult patients for the temporary improvement in the appearance of ( 1 ): Moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity Moderate to severe lateral canthal lines associated with orbicularis oculi activity Moderate to severe forehead lines associated with frontalis muscle activity Moderate to severe platysma bands associated with platysma muscle activity

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Glabellar Lines Administration: 0.1 mL (4 Units) into each of 5 sites, for a total dose of 20 Units ( 2.4 ) Lateral Canthal Lines Administration: 0.1 mL (4 Units) into each of 3 sites per side (6 total injection points), for a total of 24 Units ( 2.4 ) Forehead Lines Administration: 0.1 mL (4 Units) into each of 5 forehead line sites (20 Units) with 0.1 mL (4 Units) into each of 5 glabellar line sites (20 Units), for a recommended total of 40 Units ( 2.4 ) Platysma Bands Administration: 0.05 mL (2 Units) into each of 4 sites in the upper segment of the platysma muscles, below the jawline on each side and 0.025 mL (1 Unit) into 5 sites on each vertical neck band per side (1 to 2 bands per side) for a total of 26 Units, 31 Units, or 36 Units (18, 23, or 28 injection sites, respectively) ( 2.4 ) BOTOX Cosmetic is administered by intramuscular injection ( 2.2 ) Follow dosage and administration recommendations. Do not exceed the maximum recommended cumulative dose in a treatment session for any indication ( 2.1 , 2.2 ) See Preparation and Reconstitution Instructions for information on BOTOX Cosmetic reconstitution, storage, and preparation before injection ( 2.3 ) Figure 1: Figure 2 and 3 Figure 4: Figure 5: Injection Sites for Platysma Prominence (2 Bands) Figure 6: Injection Sites for Platysma Prominence (1 Band) 2.1 Instructions for Safe Use The potency Units of BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection are specific to the preparation and assay method utilized. BOTOX Cosmetic is not equivalent to other preparations of botulinum toxin products, and therefore, units of biological activity of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to nor converted into units of any other botulinum toxin products assessed with any other specific assay method [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Description ( 11 )] . Follow indication specific dosage and administration recommendations. Do not exceed the maximum recommended cumulative dose in a treatment session for any indication. The safe and effective use of BOTOX Cosmetic depends upon proper storage of the product, selection of the correct dose, and proper reconstitution and administration techniques. Physicians administering BOTOX Cosmetic must understand the relevant neuromuscular and structural anatomy of the area involved and any alterations to the anatomy due to prior surgical procedures and disease. Do not use BOTOX Cosmetic and contact AbbVie (1-800-678-1605) if: The tamper evident features on the carton appear to be broken or compromised, or The U.S. License number 1889 is not present on the vial label and carton labeling [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling ( 16 )] 2.2 Recommended Dose The total recommended dose in adult patients by treatment area is shown in Table 1. BOTOX Cosmetic is administered by intramuscular injection. Table 1: Total Recommended Treatment Dose Treatment Area Total Recommended Treatment Dose Glabellar lines 20 Units in 0.5 mL Lateral canthal lines 24 Units in 0.6 mL Forehead lines and glabellar lines 40 Units in 1 mL Platysma bands One band on each side: 26 Units in 0.65 mL 1 band on one side, 2 bands on the other side: 31 Units in 0.78 mL Two bands on each side: 36 Units in 0.9 mL The safety and effectiveness of dosing with BOTOX Cosmetic more frequently than every 3 months have not been clinically evaluated. 2.3 Preparation and Reconstitution Instructions BOTOX Cosmetic is supplied in single-dose 50 Units and 100 Units per vial. Prior to intramuscular injection, reconstitute each vacuum-dried vial of BOTOX Cosmetic with sterile, preservative-free 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection USP (see Table 2). Draw up the proper amount of diluent in the appropriate size needle and syringe to obtain a reconstituted solution at a concentration of 4 Units/0.1 mL. Table 2: Dilution Instructions for BOTOX Cosmetic Vials (50 Units and 100 Units) Vial Amount of Diluent* Added Resulting Dose Units per 0.1 mL 50 Units 1.25 mL 4 Units 100 Units 2.5 mL …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS For injection: 50 Units, vacuum-dried powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution For injection: 100 Units, vacuum-dried powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution For Injection: 50 Units or 100 Units vacuum-dried powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to any botulinum toxin preparation or to any of the components in the formulation ( 4.1 , 5.4 ) Infection at the injection site ( 4.2 ) 4.1 Known Hypersensitivity to Botulinum Toxin BOTOX Cosmetic is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any botulinum toxin preparation or to any of the components in the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . 4.2 Infection at the Injection Site(s) BOTOX Cosmetic is contraindicated in the presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s).

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Potency Units of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to or converted into Units of any other preparations of botulinum toxin products ( 5.1 , 11 ) Spread of toxin effects; swallowing and breathing difficulties can lead to death. Seek immediate medical attention if respiratory, speech or swallowing difficulties occur ( 5.2 , 5.7 ) Potential serious adverse reactions after administration of BOTOX for unapproved uses ( 5.3 ) Adverse event reports have been received involving the cardiovascular system, some with fatal outcomes. Use caution when administering to patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. ( 5.5 ) Concomitant neuromuscular disorder may exacerbate clinical effects of treatment ( 5.6 ) Use with caution in patients with compromised respiratory function or dysphagia ( 5.7 ) 5.1 Lack of Equivalency B etween Botulinum Toxin Products The potency Units of BOTOX Cosmetic are specific to the preparation and assay method utilized. BOTOX Cosmetic is not equivalent to other preparations of botulinum toxin products, and therefore, Units of biological activity of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to nor converted into Units of any other botulinum toxin products assessed with any other specific assay method [see Description ( 11 )] . 5.2 Spread of Toxin Effect Postmarketing safety data from BOTOX Cosmetic and other approved botulinum toxins suggest that botulinum toxin effects may, in some cases, be observed beyond the site of local injection. The symptoms are consistent with the mechanism of action of botulinum toxin and may include asthenia, generalized muscle weakness, diplopia, ptosis, dysphagia, dysphonia, dysarthria, urinary incontinence, and breathing difficulties. These symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death related to spread of toxin effects. The risk of symptoms is probably greatest in children treated for spasticity but symptoms can also occur in adults treated for spasticity and other conditions, and particularly in those patients who have an underlying condition that would predispose them to these symptoms. In unapproved uses and in approved indications, symptoms consistent with spread of toxin effect have been reported at doses comparable to or lower than doses used to treat cervical dystonia and spasticity. Advise patients or caregivers to seek immediate medical care if swallowing, speech or respiratory disorders occur. No definitive serious adverse event reports of distant spread of toxin effect associated with dermatologic use of BOTOX/BOTOX Cosmetic at the labeled dose of 20 Units (for glabellar lines), 24 Units (for lateral canthal lines), 40 Units (for forehead lines with glabellar lines), 44 Units (for simultaneous treatment of lateral canthal lines and glabellar lines), 64 Units (for simultaneous treatment of lateral canthal lines, glabellar lines, and forehead lines), or 100 Units (for severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis) have been reported. No definitive serious adverse event reports of distant spread of toxin effect associated with BOTOX for blepharospasm at the recommended dose (30 Units and below), strabismus, or chronic migraine at the labeled doses have been reported. 5.3 Serious Adverse Reactions with Unapproved Use Serious adverse reactions, including excessive weakness, dysphagia, and aspiration pneumonia, with some adverse reactions associated with fatal outcomes, have been reported in patients who received BOTOX injections for unapproved uses. In these cases, the adverse reactions were not necessarily related to distant spread of toxin, but may have resulted from the administration of BOTOX to the site of injection and/or adjacent structures. In several of the cases, patients had pre-existing dysphagia or other significant disabilities. There is insufficient information to identify factors associated with an increased risk for adverse reactions as …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions to BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Spread of Toxin Effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications ( 4.1 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Dysphagia and Breathing Difficulties [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] The most common adverse reactions are ( 6.1 ): Glabellar Lines: eyelid ptosis (3%) Lateral Canthal Lines: eyelid edema (1%) Forehead Lines: headache (9%) and brow ptosis (2%) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AbbVie at 1-800-678-1605 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. BOTOX and BOTOX Cosmetic contain the same active ingredient in the same formulation, but have different labeled Indications and Usage. Therefore, adverse events observed with the use of BOTOX also have the potential to be observed with the use of BOTOX Cosmetic. In general, adverse reactions occur within the first week following injection of BOTOX Cosmetic and while in many cases are transient, may have a duration of several months or longer. Localized pain, infection, inflammation, tenderness, swelling, erythema, and/or bleeding/bruising may be associated with the injection. Needle-related pain and/or anxiety may result in vasovagal responses (including e.g., syncope, hypotension), which may require appropriate medical therapy. Local weakness of the injected muscle(s) represents the expected pharmacological action of botulinum toxin. However, weakness of nearby muscles may also occur due to spread of toxin [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Glabellar Lines Table 5 lists selected adverse reactions reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=405) aged 18 to 75 who were evaluated in the randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of glabellar lines. Table 5: Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated Subjects and More Frequent than in Placebo-treated Subjects in Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Studies of Treatment of Glabellar Lines Adverse Reactions by System Organ Class BOTOX Cosmetic (N=405) Placebo (N=130) General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions Facial pain 6 (1%) 0 (0%) Nervous System Disorders Facial paresis 5 (1%) 0 (0%) Eye Disorders Eyelid ptosis 13 (3%) 0 (0%) Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders Muscular Weakness 6 (1%) 0 (0%) Lateral Canthal Lines Table 6 lists selected adverse reactions reported within 90 days following injection by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=526) aged 18 to 75 who were evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of lateral canthal lines alone. Table 6: Adverse Reaction Reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic Treated Subjects and More Frequent than in Placebo-treated Subjects Within 90 Days, in Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Studies of Treatment of Lateral Canthal Lines Adverse Reactions by System Organ Class BOTOX Cosmetic 24 Units (N=526) Placebo (N=530) Eye disorders Eyelid edema 5 (1%) 0 (0%) Forehead Lines Table 7 lists selected adverse reactions reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated subjects (N=665) aged 18 to 77 who were evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies to assess the use of BOTOX Cosmetic in the improvement of the appearance of forehead lines with glabellar lines. Table 7: Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥1% of BOTOX Cosmetic treated Subjects More Frequently than in Placebo-treated Subjects, in D …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted with BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection. Patients receiving concomitant treatment of BOTOX Cosmetic and aminoglycosides or other agents interfering with neuromuscular transmission (e.g., curare-like agents), or muscle relaxants, should be observed closely because the effect of BOTOX Cosmetic may be potentiated ( 7 ) 7.1 Aminoglycosides and Other Agents Interfering with Neuromuscular Transmission Co-administration of BOTOX Cosmetic and aminoglycosides or other agents interfering with neuromuscular transmission (e.g., curare-like compounds) should only be performed with caution as the effect of the toxin may be potentiated. 7.2 Anticholinergic Drugs Use of anticholinergic drugs after administration of BOTOX Cosmetic may potentiate systemic anticholinergic effects. 7.3 Other Botulinum Neurotoxin Products The effect of administering different botulinum neurotoxin products at the same time or within several months of each other is unknown. Excessive neuromuscular weakness may be exacerbated by administration of another botulinum toxin prior to the resolution of the effects of a previously administered botulinum toxin. 7.4 Muscle Relaxants Excessive weakness may also be exaggerated by administration of a muscle relaxant before or after administration of BOTOX Cosmetic.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no studies or adequate data from postmarketing surveillance on the developmental risk associated with use of BOTOX Cosmetic in pregnant women. In animal studies, administrations of BOTOX Cosmetic during pregnancy resulted in adverse effects on fetal growth (decreased fetal body weight and skeletal ossification) at clinically relevant doses, which were associated with maternal toxicity [see Data]. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Data Animal Data When BOTOX Cosmetic (4, 8, or 16 Units/kg) was administered intramuscularly to pregnant mice or rats two times during the period of organogenesis (on gestation days 5 and 13), reductions in fetal body weight and decreased fetal skeletal ossification were observed at the two highest doses. The no-effect dose for developmental toxicity in these studies (4 Units/kg) is approximately 4 times the average high human dose for glabellar lines, lateral canthal lines, and forehead lines of 64 Units on a body weight basis (Units/kg). When BOTOX Cosmetic was administered intramuscularly to pregnant rats (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 4, or 8 Units/kg) or rabbits (0.063, 0.125, 0.25, or 0.5 Units/kg) daily during the period of organogenesis (total of 12 doses in rats, 13 doses in rabbits), reduced fetal body weights and decreased fetal skeletal ossification were observed at the two highest doses in rats and at the highest dose in rabbits. These doses were also associated with significant maternal toxicity, including abortions, early deliveries, and maternal death. The developmental no-effect doses in these studies of 1 Unit/kg in rats is approximately equal the average high human dose of 64 Units based on Units/kg, and the developmental no-effect dose of 0.25 Units/kg in rabbits is less than the average high human dose based on Units/kg. When pregnant rats received single intramuscular injections (1, 4, or 16 Units/kg) at three different periods of development (prior to implantation, implantation, or organogenesis), no adverse effects on fetal development were observed. The developmental no-effect level for a single maternal dose in rats (16 Units/kg) is approximately 16 times the average high human dose of 64 Units based on Units/kg. 8. 2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of BOTOX Cosmetic in human or animal milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for BOTOX Cosmetic and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from BOTOX Cosmetic or from the underlying maternal conditions. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of BOTOX Cosmetic have not been established in pediatric patients. 8.5 Geriatric Use Glabellar Lines In the two initial glabellar lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Lateral Canthal Lines In the two lateral canthal lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older. Forehead Lines In the two forehead lines clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects younger than age 65 than for subjects 65 years or older. Platysma Bands In the two platysma bands clinical studies of BOTOX Cosmetic, 3.6% of subjects (13 subjects) treated with BOTOX Cosmetic were 65 years or older. Although the responder rates appeared to be higher for subjects yo …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action BOTOX Cosmetic blocks neuromuscular transmission by binding to acceptor sites on motor nerve terminals, entering the nerve terminals, and inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. This inhibition occurs as the neurotoxin cleaves SNAP-25, a pre-synaptic protein integral to the successful docking and release of acetylcholine from vesicles situated within nerve endings. When injected intramuscularly at therapeutic doses, BOTOX Cosmetic produces partial chemical denervation of the muscle resulting in a localized reduction in muscle activity. In addition, the muscle may atrophy, axonal sprouting may occur, and extrajunctional acetylcholine receptors may develop. There is evidence that reinnervation of the muscle may occur, thus slowly reversing muscle denervation produced by BOTOX Cosmetic.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection, is a sterile, vacuum-dried purified botulinum toxin type A, produced from fermentation of Hall strain Clostridium botulinum type A intended for intramuscular use. It is purified from the culture solution by dialysis and a series of acid precipitations to a complex consisting of the neurotoxin, and several accessory proteins. The complex is dissolved in sterile sodium chloride solution containing Albumin Human and is sterile filtered (0.2 microns) prior to filling and vacuum-drying. The primary release procedure for BOTOX Cosmetic uses a cell-based potency assay to determine the potency relative to a reference standard. The assay is specific to AbbVie’s products BOTOX and BOTOX Cosmetic. One Unit of BOTOX Cosmetic corresponds to the calculated median intraperitoneal lethal dose (LD 50 ) in mice. Due to specific details of this assay such as the vehicle, dilution scheme and laboratory protocols, Units of biological activity of BOTOX Cosmetic cannot be compared to nor converted into Units of any other botulinum toxin or any toxin assessed with any other specific assay method. The specific activity of BOTOX Cosmetic is approximately 20 Units/nanogram of neurotoxin complex. Each vial of BOTOX Cosmetic contains either 50 Units of Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin complex, 0.25 mg of Albumin Human, and 0.45 mg of sodium chloride; or 100 Units of Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin complex, 0.5 mg of Albumin Human, and 0.9 mg of sodium chloride in a sterile, vacuum-dried form without a preservative.

10 OVERDOSAGE Excessive doses of BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection may be expected to produce neuromuscular weakness with a variety of symptoms. Symptoms of overdose are likely not to be present immediately following injection. Should accidental injection or oral ingestion occur or overdose be suspected, consider patients for further medical evaluation and immediately institute appropriate medical therapy, which may include hospitalization. The patient should be medically supervised for several weeks for signs and symptoms of systemic muscular weakness which could be local, or distant from the site of injection [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.7 )] . If the musculature of the oropharynx and esophagus are affected, aspiration may occur which may lead to development of aspiration pneumonia. If the respiratory muscles become paralyzed or sufficiently weakened, intubation and assisted respiration may be necessary until recovery takes place. Supportive care could involve the need for a tracheostomy and/or prolonged mechanical ventilation, in addition to other general supportive care. In the event of overdose, antitoxin raised against botulinum toxin is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, GA. However, the antitoxin will not reverse any botulinum toxin-induced effects already apparent by the time of antitoxin administration. In the event of suspected or actual cases of botulinum toxin poisoning, please contact your local or state Health Department to process a request for antitoxin through the CDC. If you do not receive a response within 30 minutes, please contact the CDC directly at 1-770-488-7100. More information can be obtained at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5232a8.htm.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) for injection is a vacuum-dried powder supplied in a single-dose vial in the following sizes: 50 Units: NDC 0023-3919-50 100 Units: NDC 0023-9232-01 BOTOX Cosmetic cartons have features to alert users if contents may have been compromised. Each BOTOX Cosmetic vial label and carton labeling also contain the U.S. License number 1889 [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )] . Do not use the product and contact AbbVie for additional information at 1-800-678-1605 if the labeling is not as described above. Storage Store unopened vials of BOTOX Cosmetic in a refrigerator 2°C to 8°C (36oF to 46oF). Do not use after the expiration date on the vial. Store reconstituted BOTOX Cosmetic in a refrigerator 2°C to 8°C (36oF to 46oF) and administer within 24 hours [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] .

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
12,343
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: BOTULINUM TOXIN TYPE A. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0023-3919-50 0023-3919 Allergan, Inc. 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0023-3919-50) / 1 INJECTION, POWDER, LYOPHILIZED, FOR SOLUTION in 1 VIAL, GLASS July 15, 2008
0023-3919-51 0023-3919 Allergan, Inc. 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0023-3919-51) / 1 INJECTION, POWDER, LYOPHILIZED, FOR SOLUTION in 1 VIAL, GLASS July 15, 2008
0023-9232-01 0023-9232 Allergan, Inc. 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0023-9232-01) / 1 INJECTION, POWDER, LYOPHILIZED, FOR SOLUTION in 1 VIAL, GLASS May 20, 2008
0023-9232-02 0023-9232 Allergan, Inc. 1 VIAL, GLASS in 1 CARTON (0023-9232-02) / 1 INJECTION, POWDER, LYOPHILIZED, FOR SOLUTION in 1 VIAL, GLASS May 20, 2008
0023-3919 0023-3919 Allergan, Inc. — July 15, 2008
0023-9232 0023-9232 Allergan, Inc. — May 20, 2008

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Purple Book FDA Biologic licence classification

Generated September 25, 2026 · 10 sections on this page.