Beauty, Biological Weapons, and Botox

The document discussed the unexpected medical applications of botulinum toxin, traditionally known as a poison, in treating various conditions such as back pain, migraines, and symptoms of cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis. It highlighted the author's experience as a dermatologist collaborating with neurologists to explore these uses, initially discovered through cosmetic applications. The text also critiqued the FDA's handling of aesthetic medicine, referencing past controversies like breast implants. Additionally, it argued that botulinum toxin would be ineffective as a biological weapon due to its low mortality rate and the impracticality of its bacteria spreading through inhalation.