A spike in the confirmed cases of botulism across England has seen 41 people hospitalised, which has led to a warning from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
Following a spike in hospital admissions, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is cracking down on the illicit trade in unlicensed botulinum toxin products, commonly referred to as Botox, used in cosmetic procedures.
Between the beginning of June and August, 41 confirmed cases of botulism – a rare but potentially life-threatening condition causing paralysis – were reported across several regions in England, including the North East, East Midlands, East of England, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber.
The Criminal Enforcement Unit says that it has seen evidence that some sellers and practitioners – often untrained – are obtaining unlicensed botulinum toxin products illegally and offering injections in unsafe, unregulated settings. The treatments are being delivered in informal settings such as domestic bedrooms and kitchens, hair salons, and through mobile beauty services.
“Anyone involved in the supply of unlicensed botulinum toxin – whether through organised networks or informal sales from kitchen tables, hair salons, or via social media – is breaking the law and endangering lives,” said Andy Morling, the head of the MHRA’s criminal enforcement unit.
“We are working across the country to identify those responsible, seize illegal products, and bring cases to court,” he added.
A warning sign
Botulism caused by botulinum toxin in cosmetic procedures is rare but can be life-threatening. Symptoms can take up to four weeks to develop and may include difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and breathing difficulty. In severe cases, patients may require mechanical ventilation and intensive care treatment.
Since May 2023, the Criminal Enforcement Unit, working closely with its partners in Border Force, has seized more than 4,700 vials of unlicensed botulinum toxin both at the border and inland.
Almost all of the seized products originated in South Korea, including brands such as Botulax, reNTox, Innotox, and Toxpia, which are not authorised for sale in the UK.
“Buying botulinum toxin in any other circumstances significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK,” said MHRA chief safety officer Alison Cave.
“If you are offered botulinum toxin without a medical consultation, in an informal setting, or at a price significantly below usual rates, this should be treated as a warning sign,” she added.
