There are very specific procedures set out by the manufacturer of pharmaceutical Botox regarding its use and safety. Under certain circumstances, because Botox is an active neurotoxin, the administration of the drug can be dangerous or fatal. In most states, licensed physicians are the only people legally allowed to administer Botox injections. These physicians can include neurosurgeons, neurologists, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons. In some states licensed nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants can also be trained and licensed to administer Botox treatments. These practitioners may be licensed in the field of cosmetic surgery or more general medicine. There are specific educators, such as the Aesthetic Medical Educators, that offer botox training in the administration of Botox injections to licensed physicians and other health care professionals. These training courses usually last for a single day and are provided at a central training facility with human models used for instruction and technique.

Patients seeking Botox treatments should never try to save economically at the cost of accuracy and safety. Botox can produce unwanted side effects and illness if not administered by a trained professional. Those states that allow someone licensed, other than a physician, to administer Botox require a doctor in the room to supervise the injection process. For ultimate safety and security of the patients, a facility and injector should be chosen based on their experience, patient history and certifications. Although there are several spas around the country which offer Botox treatments as part of their beauty products, there are no estheticians or beauticians authorized or licensed to administer Botox injections. Only doctors can order Botox and only spas which have a partnership with a licensed physician are allowed to legally provide Botox treatments