Can Botox Treat Depression?

Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. There are many forms of depression and it affects people differently. Treatments may include prescription medication, talking to a therapist and support groups. We recently have been introduced to a study that shows that Botox injections may reduce symptoms of depression.Can Botox treat depression? Read on to find out more.

Botox is commonly used to treat facial lines and wrinkles. Now, some doctors are injecting Botox into the face to treat depression. The theory is that our emotions are expressed by facial muscles, which in turn send feedback signals to the brain to reinforce those emotions. Treating facial muscles with Botox interrupts this cycle.  Positive effects on mood have been seen in patients who’ve had Botox treatment for the frown lines in the area above the nose and between the eyebrows.

Clinical trials have revealed that patients treated with Botox over a placebo showed a 47% reduction in depression after 6 weeks compared to only a 9.25% reduction in the placebo group. A majority of the patient’s who saw a reduction in symptoms were put into remission and were unlikely to suffer from depression again. Give us a call to discuss Botox treatments for your depression today.