If you’ve ever had Botox, you know that it acts on target muscles, relaxing the muscles and preventing movement. But how does it do this? It all comes down to acetylcholine. Let’s take a closer look at this chemical messenger, and what it has to do with Botox.
## Acetylcholine is a Neurotransmitter
Our body is constantly sending messages between neurons in the brain, and from the brain to the rest of the body. Chemical messengers called neurotransmitters are a key part of this communication. Neurotransmitters are released from the end of one neuron, and then picked up by a nearby neuron to send the message where it needs to go.

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter found throughout the body and it’s important for a wide range of functions. Too little or too much acetylcholine can lead to neurological concerns. Eating a balanced diet gives the body all the building blocks it needs to make acetylcholine and other important neurotransmitters.
## Acetylcholine and Botox
So what does all of this have to do with Botox? Botox is a cosmetic treatment that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face. It can smooth away dynamic wrinkles that are caused by repetitive muscle movement. After years of frowning, you may develop deep wrinkles between your eyebrows. Or if you smile often, you may start to notice crow’s feet at the corners of your eyes. 

Botox injections contain botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that blocks acetylcholine. When Botox settles into target muscles, it blocks the function of acetylcholine. Even though the brain sends a signal to move the muscle, the signal never arrives.

For example, if you unconsciously furrow your brow when you concentrate, this repetitive movement can cause dreaded “11” lines between your brows. Botox injected into these muscles can stop that signal before it reaches the target muscle. Your brow will stay relaxed and won’t keep creasing the skin. After one to two weeks, you’ll notice smoother skin and fewer wrinkles.
## Botox Can Treat Migraines, Excessive Sweating, and More
Botox doesn’t just smooth away wrinkles. Because it blocks acetylcholine, it’s a perfect treatment option for a number of muscle-related conditions. Botox can decrease migraine pain by relaxing the muscles around the temples, along the neck, and top of the shoulders. Botox can also prevent excessive sweating. Botox injected into the underarm area blocks the production of sweat. Botox can also treat muscle spasms, clenched jaw or teeth grinding, and overactive bladder issues.
## Botox is Safe and Effective
Botox injections contain small doses of the botulinum toxin, so it only affects the muscles at the injection site. Botox lasts between 3 to 6 months in the body, and then it’s broken down into proteins and flushed from the body. It is FDA approved for several medical and cosmetic treatments, and unlike some other treatments, has a very low risk of side effects. Side effects are mild, including a risk of slight redness or swelling at the injection site, or the risk of light bruising at the injection site.

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All About Acetylcholine | Persimmon

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