Botox Cosmetic (botulinum toxin A), a wrinkle-reducing drug manufactured by Allergan, has been on the market for two decades this month.

The drug received FDA approval for treating blepharoplasty and strabismus in 1989, and has since become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures on the market.

Botox Cosmetic not only gets rid of the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it also helps treat a number of conditions and health problems including excessive sweating, cervical dystonia and can even be used to treat migraines.

Botox continues to rank in the top five of most popular non-invasive procedures each year, and demand for the injectable has only increased during these tough economic times, as more people look for affordable anti aging treatments.  Botox has joined the ranks of laser rejuvenation and advanced chemical peel procedures to lead the field of innovative skin rejuvenation procedures. It’s one of the most commonly asked for and most recognized cosmetic enhancements on the market, and competition for the drug is minimal.

The FDA is currently reviewing and approving drugs that mimic the effects of Botox, but it will take time for these drugs to be widely accepted, used and marketed in the same way as Botox.

Despite recent reports of botulinism poisoning and adverse effects experienced by some individuals who were administered an ‘overdose’ of Botox, the drug continues to be used around the country. The neurotoxin is being reviewed for treating overactive bladders, chronic migraines, and even post-stroke spasticity.  It is designed primarily to inhibit and eliminate movement of the muscles at the injection site, and is commonly used to treat crow’s feet, fill out skin depressions, and eliminate wrinkles on the forehead.

After 20 years, Botox continues to be one of the most effective anti-aging treatments on the market, and offers numerous health benefits.