People thinking about heading abroad to have a weight loss procedure are being warned not to travel after a steep increase in serious disease cases.
Stomach treatments in Turkey are a particular cause for alarm following a rise in instances of botulism. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control is urging people to avoid them, reports the Daily Record.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness, caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves that causes difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis and even death. Sixty cases are linked to a private hospital in Istanbul and three to a separate private clinic in Izmir, on the west coast.
There have also been reports of patients contracting botulism in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, with 67 cases highlighted. Findings show that all patients received intragastric injections of botulism neurotoxin (BoNT) for weight loss between February 22 and March 1, 2023.
Injecting botulinum toxin into the stomach wall temporarily relaxes the muscles and slows stomach emptying. The procedure can help you feel full longer after eating, making it easier to eat less and lose weight.
The poison is present in injections that offer a mild paralysing effect to areas to improve wrinkles and fine lines. Anyone who received the treatment in Turkey are being asked to seek medical advice, especially if symptoms like weakness and difficulty in breathing and swallowing occur.
So far, infected cases have ranged from mild to severe with several affected being hospitalised, with some admitted to intensive care units and receiving treatment with botulinum anti-toxin. Other symptoms of botulism include blurred vision, slurred speech, and drooping eyelids.
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Investigations carried out by Turkish authorities revealed that licensed BoNT products were administered in the treatments at both locations, but that these products are not approved for the treatment of obesity by intragastric injection. As a result, investigations have been launched into both hospitals and they have had their activities suspended.
AbbVie Company statement in response to the Turkey Botulism article: "AbbVie is aware of reports regarding the off-label use of botulinum toxins following a statement issued by the Ministry of Health, Turkey, on 11th March 2023. We do not promote the use of any of our products for unapproved indications and while strictly only adhering to approved indications in all our activities. Patient safety is our top priority and we are committed to meeting the highest standards of product quality."
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