When we think of cosmetic surgery, we often think of it being the domain mainly of women. Botox and collagen injections, in particular, have become incredibly popular as simple, in office treatments which can make a dramatic effect with wrinkles and other small issues with appearance. Men have become more and more interested in these non-invasive procedures, but not necessarily for the reason you may think.

Botox and Your Bedroom – An Unlikely Alliance

Botox is the more common name for botulinum toxin, a protein and neurotoxin with a number of medical applications. The word ‘toxin’ in its formal name can be a bit off putting, but Botox has proven useful in the treatment of migraines, lazy eyes, depression, excessive sweating and, of course, a variety of cosmetic procedures. Botox has become most commonly associated with treatment for wrinkles and signs of aging and is a popular choice for many people who want something that works quickly and doesn’t require a hospital stay.

As Botox has been used more, additional treatment possibilities have been researched. Last year alone, more than 55% of Botox sales were for procedures not related to the cosmetic industry. The makers of Botox have constantly worked to find newer ways for the compound to be used. One of the more recent developments is the potential for Botox to be used in treating early ejaculation.

A study conducted by researchers at Tulane University injected the Botox compound into male rats and then timed how long they were able to have sex. The study found that rats who were injected with Botox lasted markedly longer. These findings have led to a greater interest in using the compound as a treatment for early ejaculation and the treatment is set to be approved by the FDA.

A Shot to the Crotch – Is it Right for You?

The treatment requires the injection of Botox which does put some men off when it comes to evaluating their treatment options. Also worth noting is that Botox doesn’t come without risk. Some potential side effects of Botox treatment for both medical and cosmetic applications include:

• Muscle weakness in places other than the injection site
• Problems with bladder control
• Vision problems
• Rash and itching
• Irregular heartbeat or breathing
• Bruising, bleeding and pain
• Muscle stiffness
• Headache
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Light sensitivity

These side effects do not affect everyone who receives Botox treatments, but they should be considered carefully before taking the plunge. These side effects do, however, give many men pause as the potential risks may outweigh any benefit the treatment can bring. Since the treatment is so new, men may want to wait until it has been used more often so they can get a better idea of what to expect and to find out just how much help the treatment can offer.

Preliminary findings show an optimistic future for Botox as a treatment for chronic early ejaculation but that doesn’t mean it would be considered as a first line of treatment. Many doctors still opt for more natural and less complicated treatment options, especially at first. Changes in diet, an increase in physical activity and finding ways to lower stress and anxiety are often extremely effective in the long run and numbing gels or restriction devices help to treat the effects of the condition more immediately.

Men dealing with chronic or long-term early ejaculation are often willing to try new things in order to effectively treat the condition. Botox has been sued for the safe and effective treatment of a variety of conditions as well as widespread cosmetic use. Botox is now poised to become an effective treatment for early ejaculation, but will probably still only be used for chronic or long term episodes. This new development holds a great promise, however, since it shows that there is still room for unique and innovative treatment options to be developed when experts, researchers and clinicians are able to work together.