Botox for Depression, Migraine and Bruxism – More Than Just Aesthetics
- Integramed
- Sep 20
- 3 min read
Botox for Depression Migrane and Bruxism
Most people know Botox from aesthetic medicine – smoothing wrinkles, rejuvenating the skin. But did you know that Botox can also be used in the treatment of depression, chronic migraine, and bruxism? In my practice, I combine this application with psychiatric expertise. In this article, you’ll learn how it works, what studies show, and who may benefit.
1. Why Botox Works Beyond Cosmetics
Facial feedback theory: Muscles in the face influence how we perceive emotions. When frown lines and forehead tension are relaxed, the negative feedback loop decreases.
Neurological effects: Botox reduces muscle overactivity and tension triggers – helpful in migraine and bruxism.
Emotional nervous system: Many studies show that pain and unpleasant emotions are strongly mediated through muscle tension and bodily reactions.
2. What the Studies Say: Botox and Depression
Wollmer et al. (2012): Glabellar injections of Botulinum toxin significantly reduced depressive symptoms in several randomized controlled trials. PubMed Central
Affatato et al. (2021): Patients with both chronic migraine and major depression showed clear improvements in depression scores and migraine days after treatment with OnabotulinumtoxinA. BioMed Central
Escher et al. (2016): Strong evidence that Botox reduces the frequency and severity of chronic migraine. PubMed Central
Finzi et al. (2023): Review article confirming that injections into the frown muscles (corrugator, procerus) have antidepressant effects. MDPI
3. Bruxism & Botox – What Do We Know?
While the research on bruxism is not as strong as for migraine and depression, Botox is already widely used internationally to relax the overactive jaw muscles.Many patients report that releasing this tension improves headaches, facial pain, and even sleep quality.
4. Who Can Benefit From This Therapy?
People with moderate to severe depression, especially if conventional treatments (medication, psychotherapy) have not been sufficient
Patients with chronic migraine or high-frequency migraine who have already tried other preventive treatments
People with bruxism, especially those suffering from strong muscle tension, jaw pain, or tooth problems
Patients with combined conditions (migraine + depression) → often show greater improvements, since both conditions reinforce each other
5. How the Treatment Works & Safety Information
Injection areas
Depression: Typically in the glabellar region (frown lines, corrugator/procerus muscles), sometimes forehead. These muscles are strongly linked to negative facial expressions (frowning, worry lines).
Migraine: Additional injections in head and neck areas depending on symptoms (forehead, temples, back of head, neck muscles).
Bruxism: Injections into the chewing muscles (masseter, sometimes temporalis) to reduce overactivity.
Dosage
Varies depending on muscle group, symptoms, and individual muscle strength.
Treatment interval
Effect begins after 3–7 days, full effect after about 2 weeks.
Duration: 3–4 months (sometimes longer, especially in depression studies).
Repeat treatment is recommended once the effect wears off → usually every 12–16 weeks.
Possible side effects
Local: slight redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
Headache in the first few days (ironically, despite its use for migraine).
Rare: asymmetries, drooping eyelid (ptosis) – usually mild and reversible.
Jaw muscle (bruxism): temporary chewing weakness or fatigue.
Systemic side effects are extremely rare when performed correctly.
Important safety notes
Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Caution in neuromuscular disorders (e.g. Myasthenia gravis).
Standard procedure: informed consent discussion and written agreement before treatment.
Want to Learn More?
Book your first consultation here:
