Summary
An undercover BBC investigation found that some nurses and pharmacists in England are selling Botox without following safety rules. This practice includes providing prescriptions via WhatsApp and bypassing required health checks, which can lead to serious health risks.
Key Facts
- A BBC investigation revealed that some medical professionals are illegally selling Botox without proper checks.
- Botox requires an in-person consultation with a licensed professional before being prescribed.
- Researchers found nurses and pharmacists were secretly filmed trading Botox prescriptions through WhatsApp.
- The investigation captured a nurse prescriber issuing Botox prescriptions without meeting clients.
- This illegal practice includes using one person's prescription to provide Botox for another.
- The UK botulinum toxin market is expected to grow significantly, from £115m in 2024 to nearly £295m by 2031.
- Engaging in Botox practices without proper safety checks risks complications like drooping eyelids and, in severe cases, respiratory failure.
- The professional bodies for pharmacists and nurses expressed concern and are reviewing the evidence.
