Unusual Weight Loss Method: Botulinum Toxin Injections in the Stomach

In the quest for weight loss, people are constantly seeking innovative and unconventional methods. One such method that has emerged is the use of botulinum toxin injections in the stomach. These injections, administered under endoscopic guidance, slow down the passage of food through the stomach, making patients feel satiated for longer periods.

Botulinum toxin affects the gastric neuromuscular fibers by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is responsible for the nerve-muscle impulse transmission.

The appetite gradually decreases within three days after the procedure, and the maximum effect is expected after one week. According to conducted studies, the results are not long-lasting, typically lasting for an average of 3 to 6 months.

While this method shows promise, it remains controversial. Recent reports from the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control revealed that 67 individuals from Turkey, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland were diagnosed with botulism between February 22 and March 1, 2023. All of these patients had received "gastric botox" injections for weight loss at two Turkish clinics located in Istanbul and Izmir.

Botulism is a paralytic illness caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which usually thrives in anaerobic environments. The symptoms of botulism can vary from blurred or double vision, slurred speech, nausea, and diarrhea to more severe effects that can impede breathing, with a mortality rate of 5-10% in some cases.

Currently, investigations are underway regarding these incidents. Furthermore, it should be noted that the botulinum toxin used in these cases has not been approved for intragastric injections.

The emergence of such cases highlights the need for rigorous evaluation and regulation of weight loss procedures involving botulinum toxin. Safety should always be a top priority, and any medical intervention must be based on approved and well-established practices. As the investigation continues, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure that any weight loss methods chosen are supported by scientific evidence and conducted by qualified medical professionals.