41 people hospitalised
The UK medicines regulator has launched a nationwide crackdown on the illegal trade in unlicensed botulinum toxin after more than 40 people were hospitalised with suspected botulism linked to unsafe cosmetic injections.
Between June and August, 41 confirmed cases were recorded across regions including the North East, East Midlands and Yorkshire. Victims suffered serious illness, with some requiring intensive care.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said unlicensed products were being sold online and injected in unregulated settings such as kitchens, hair salons and through mobile services. Offenders face up to two years in prison and unlimited fines.
Enforcement action underway
Andy Morling, head of the MHRA’s Criminal Enforcement Unit, said: “Criminals are exploiting the popularity of cosmetic treatments by peddling dangerous, unlicensed products, putting profit before safety. The 41 individuals left seriously ill represent the devastating human cost of this trade.”
The agency has already seized more than 4,700 vials of unlicensed botulinum toxin since May 2023, working with Border Force to block imports, many originating from South Korea under brand names such as Botulax and Innotox. Social media platforms are also being pressed to remove illegal listings.
Government warning to consumers
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock condemned those behind the trade as “cosmetic cowboys,” urging consumers to only seek treatment from reputable, medically qualified practitioners. MHRA Chief Safety Officer Dr Alison Cave added that legitimate products are prescription-only and must be administered in clinical settings.
Symptoms of botulism can include slurred speech, difficulty swallowing and breathing problems, which may appear weeks after treatment. Anyone affected has been urged to seek immediate medical help.
How to stay safe
The regulator advised the public to verify practitioner credentials, check packaging and batch numbers, and be wary of unusually low prices or treatments offered in informal environments. Side effects or complications should be reported via the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.
Officials said the crackdown, alongside new regulations, aims to protect public safety while reassuring people that offenders will be prosecuted.
