Thursday, May 23, 2013
Wednesday, February 09, 2011 seekinghelp asks

Q: Botox and constipation - any connection?

I have recently tried Botox injections for migraine prevention. The first round didn't help. The second round, a higher dose, may be helping a little - but I have found myself having problems with constipation (that increased significantly after the second round). I am not taking any pain meds other than very occasional ibuprofen and have not changed any other medications. I eat a hgih fiber diet. It seems odd to think there could be a connection - but I did a bit of reading on brain-gut relationship which made it seem not so far-fetched. Also, even before trying Botox, I had noticed that I tended to become constipated as my migraine was getting better. A strange thing. Any thoughts?

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Answers (2)
2/12/11 7:43pm

Hi seekinghelp,

 

I can't find this as an potential side effect of Botox,  but that doesn't mean it isn't possible. You need to ask your doctor this question. There are factors to be considered in addition to potential side effect of Botox like any health issues/conditions you may have, and ALL other medications you are taking including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, etc.

 

Good luck

Nancy

 

 

 

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12/30/12 6:16pm

Since I began taking BoTox for migraine many years ago, I experienced constipation with each round of injections.  But since I have IBS anyway, I didn't mind all that much.  However, now that the FDA recommended higher dosages when they cleared it for use in the USA, I had a very bad experience with this problem.  I had to take two stool softeners each night,  I had to take several fiber pills every morning, and I ate prunes by the handful.  My neurologist insisted that I was crazy, but when I told him of all the meds I had to take just to be able to go to the bathroom somewhat, he relented and put the needles elswhere.  I insisted he leave them out of my neck, as I had problems with my voice anyway, AND I went on line to find out where acupuncturists put in needles to help constipation, and it was in the neck.  Anyway, by moving the needles, I lost most of the pain relief.  I have got to find out exactly what placement causes the constipation.  I have two months left on this treatment, and my bowel habits have returned to normal.  Too bad my head hurts!  I have daily chronic migraines, by the way.

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By seekinghelp— Last Modified: 12/30/12, First Published: 02/09/11