-Automatic translation

The Directorate of Health and the Chief Epidemiologist warn against procedures performed by persons who are not licensed by the Directorate as a qualified health professional. The reason for this warning is reports of botulism following adverse reactions to aesthetic procedures in the UK over the past three months. Botulinum toxin is widely used in aesthetic treatments but also therapeutically for various other health conditions. A report of serious poisonings related to unlicensed Botox-like products in the UK was recently shared through the EU's EWRS alert system.

Close to 40 cases of botulinum poisoning have been confirmed in the UK, all related to aesthetic treatments involving botulinum toxin injections. The main symptoms included slurred speech and difficulty swallowing and/or breathing. It was reported that 22 individuals were hospitalized, including seven in intensive care. Although botulism is rare, these events can be life-threatening.

The Directorate has informed Landspitali, the National University Hospital of Iceland, and other healthcare service providers of the notification from the UK. Individuals who have recently undergone aesthetic treatments involving botulinum-containing products administered by someone without a valid license as a health care professional are advised to call 1700 for consultation.

The Directorate of Health emphasizes that individuals considering treatment with botulinum-based products must ensure the provider is a licensed physician. It is possible to verify licensing status in the Directorate’s Register of Licensed Healthcare Practitioners – only those with valid licenses are listed.

The substance in question is the active ingredient in approved medicines legally available on the market in Iceland and used lawfully in accordance with regulations.

The Directorate has not yet received any reports of botulism cases in Iceland, but symptoms may take up to four weeks to appear. However, the Directorate is aware that products containing botulinum toxin have been illegally imported and used in Iceland. The Directorate cannot confirm whether the products involved in Iceland are the same as those in the UK. The Directorate has notified the police about the use of illegal pharmaceutical botulinum toxin agents.

For further information, please contact:
Kjartan Hreinn Njálsson, Assistant to the Medical Director of Health
kjartan.h.njalsson@landlaeknir.is