Botox is a widely known drug for removing wrinkles, especially in the facial area. Botox in the UK and other parts of Europe is steadily gaining popularity with many people scheduling the procedure during lunch hour. After being approved more than three decades ago, Botox is the staple of cosmetic surgery. The drug is safe to use but should only be administered by a doctor and in small amounts over a period of several months. Now anyone can get rid of the laughter lines with ease, and shed a few years off the face.

Amid the scepticism, the drug has been approved to be used in several cosmetic and medical conditions. Here are some incredible uses of the drug:

• Chronic migraines

Dr. William Binder, a plastic surgeon, based in Beverly Hills, was the first professional to realize that Botox alleviated chronic migraines. After his Botox patients started reporting fewer headaches, he decided to test the drug on patients suffering from chronic migraines. In 2010, the drug was approved to be used for the disorder. The drug is administered through injections on the neck and head.

• Extreme underarm sweating

People suffering from a condition known as primary axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating in the underarm area) can get relief through Botox. Doctors realised that the drug could be used to treat the condition after observing that patients were sweating less after Botox treatment. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug for this disorder in 2004.

• Overactive bladder

In a study conducted by Dr. Linda Brubaker of Chicago, it was discovered that Botox is an active drug for treating overactive bladder. More than 70% of the women that were observed during the study experienced less than three leaks a day. However, Dr. Linda cautions that excessive use of Botox for this treatment can cause the bladder to shut down too much.

• Crossed eyes

This was one of the first uses for Botox to be approved by the FDA. Statistics reveal that approximately 4% of people in the US suffer from strabismus (crossed eyes). The Botox drug is used in tiny amounts to ensure that a patient’s eyes line up in one direction.

• Severe neck seizures

Cervical dystonia is a disorder that causes severe neck seizures and is mainly distinguished by an irregular head position. The FDA approved the drug to treat the seizures in 2000, and this was even before accepting it for the cosmetic purpose of smoothing wrinkles and frown lines.

The patient’s condition and response to Botox therapy will determine the dosage amount, site and number of injections, and the frequency of treatment. Statistics reveal that most people who receive this treatment start to see positive effects in a few days, and it often lasts for not more than 6 months.

Speak to your doctor before you decide to use Botox as a treatment for any of these conditions. Allergan, the manufacturer of the drug, continues to conduct clinical trials for other conditions such as depression, premature ejaculation, abnormal heartbeat, severely cold limbs, and cleft lips.