Gastric botox is a relatively new, non-surgical, method of weight loss.

During gastric botox, during gastroscopy, botulinum toxin type A [Botox] is injected at various locations on the stomach wall.

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Botox causes a reduction in the muscle contractions of the stomach wall (gastroparesis), so that food stays in the stomach longer, creating a feeling of fullness and satiety. In addition, when botox is injected into a specific area in the stomach called the dome, our appetite is also reduced because the production of a hormone called ghrelin, which is the appetite hormone, is reduced. With this procedure we can achieve the loss of 10-20 kilos in a period of 6 months.

Who it is aimed at

Gastric botox is not indicated for obese patients with BMI greater than 40, who should consult a bariatric surgeon for surgical treatment of obesity.

The ideal candidate for gastric botox is:
- the person with BMI between 25 and 35 who wants to lose 10-20 kg in a short period of time and has not managed to do so with diet or exercise
- women who have gained some extra weight in menopause or pregnancy
- obese patients who need to lose some weight before undergoing bariatric surgery
- patients who have already undergone some bariatric surgery in the past and have gained some weight after years.

Note that the test cannot be done in those who are allergic to botulinum toxin or in patients with myopathies.

Results

Gastric botox should be part of an overall change in habits and lifestyle, as to maximize its effect it is important to combine it with proper diet and exercise. This means that the results of the procedure vary between patients.
Studies show that 85% of patients have very good results with a loss of 10-20 kg in 4 to 6 months. 10% of patients do not achieve weight loss and this seems to be for people who have difficulty following a specific diet, exercise and general lifestyle programme.

How it is carried out safely

Gastric botox is a safe procedure when performed by a gastroenterologist in a hospital setting in the presence of an anesthesiologist. Before the procedure, the patient is fasted for 8-10 hours just as before the gastroscopy. The whole procedure lasts 20-30 minutes, the anaesthesiologist administers intoxication, so the patient does not feel anything and remains for observation 1-2 hours after the procedure. The next day he can return to his daily activities.
The action of the toxin will start to show after 3 -4 days and during this time the first appointment with the nutritionist should be made in order to determine a specific diet plan. The effect of gastric botox lasts for 4-6 months and of course it can be repeated afterwards.

The most common complications of the procedure are the same as those of gastroscopy.Rarely, there may be a flu-like subscription that can last up to 10 days and even more rarely, possible allergic reactions to Botox.

After the botox injection, patients who are not particularly careful with their diet may experience symptoms of nausea and vomiting, and therefore it is necessary for the patient to follow the diet recommended by the dietician.

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In conclusion, it is important to emphasize that gastric botox is a simple non-surgical weight loss technique that will result in the majority of patients losing 10-20 kg within 4 to 6 months and can be repeated. It must, however, be part of a more comprehensive programme of changing patients' diet and habits to achieve optimal results.