I have heard from several people that the Air Force had been cracking down on individuals that are using Botox for migraines. I know 2 people who are being newly MEBd for having to use botox for migraines. Anyone have any insight on this?
Botox in the Air Force
- Thread starter KatJack43
- Start date
I wasn't fortunate enough to be one of those people. I tried several meds with no success then two sessions of Botox and they never mentioned anything about MEB to me. This was all just last year. I started the Botox in July and had my last session in October because it wasn't helping me. I have an Airman I work with that just started it like a month ago and they haven't mentioned anything an MEB for them.
I am undergoing MEB for botox for migraine headaches now. I've been getting injections since 2006. PCM said I should've been boarded 12 years ago but slipped through the cracks. The only reason it was brought to my PCM's attention was because I asked if I was deployable on botox and was told no. I was then profiled and the DAWG forwarded me on for an MEB (because I need botox to remain stable to do my job). Still in the early stages of the MEB so I don't have any other info right now.
@kynchanted
I assume during the 12 years you "should have been boarded" you have been promoted, received an awards... That would make an unfit finding very interesting.
I assume during the 12 years you "should have been boarded" you have been promoted, received an awards... That would make an unfit finding very interesting.
Yes, I promoted, even commissioned through a commissioning program while on botox. I disclosed every year on my PHA that I had chronic migraines, treated with botox, and I was even getting the botox tx's during my time in the commissioning program.
This is true, they are cracking down due to the non deployment of people who use botox to manage migraines. I am currently not deployable and they started me on Topamax and Aimovig. Suppose to stop migraines but I just recently had to still go in for the magic cocktail and put on quarters. I am still new into the med board process and was never offered Botox for managing them but the DAWG decided back in july/august to send me up for a med/peb evaluation.
You may want to volunteer for a waiver to deploy. Some spots have full up hospitals and medical staff.
I know this is an old thread, but I've been getting botox for probably 7 years now, and it's never once been mentioned to me that I would be non-deployable, nor has an MEB been mentioned (until last week, but it was for another issue...). My PCM is the one who gives me the BOTOX injections too....should I be concerned?
This is strange to me, because the Army see Botox as a way to make migraine suffer's deploy-able. Since a injection series last 3 months, and cold chain medications are relatively easy for BDE level Med ("Charlie Med") because that's how they get their mandatory vaccines and other things anyways. The Air Force requires such a larger deployed foot print that it really makes no sense for them not to be able to provide and use Botox in a deployed setting.
Do you mind sharing your experience and what came about from your MEB? Similar situation receiving for two years and told by my new pcm that Botox is an automatic MEB.
Hi! Do you mind sharing an update? I’ve been on Botox but have been into the ER a few times for that same cocktail and put on quarters as well. But apparently my Botox treatment triggered an MEB.
That Migraine condition is by itself 50 percent through the VA, but you need to have a boat load of records, neurologist, ER, Urgent Care whatever.
I’ve been going to see a neurologist for about 9 years now and have had a few ER visits but I mostly suffer in silence so I only go to the ER when it’s been last for days with no relief or subsiding at all. But I’m getting older now and it’s harder to suffer in silence when I go home to my real full time job of parenting.
Hey there, I'm sorry to hear that your friends are going through that. I don't have any direct insight on the Air Force's stance on Botox for migraines, but I do know that it's a common treatment for those who suffer from chronic migraines. It's tough to hear that it's causing issues for some members. On a side note, if you're looking for alternative ways to relax and rejuvenate, you should check out some local med spas. They have tons of services that are great for self-care, and you might find something new that works for you. Relax and Rejuvenate with a Med Spa was a game-changer for me, and it might be for you too! Best of luck.
Just curious: is it still effective to use botox for treating migraines?
It is the most effective treatment in my opinion. It is also very safe and the side effects are no wrinkles
I haven't personally heard anything about the Air Force cracking down on Botox for migraines, but it's possible they might have some rules about it. Your best bet would be to check with a doctor or someone who knows about healthcare in the Air Force for accurate info. Btw, have you ever thought about trying Pico laser for acne scars? It's a pretty popular treatment these days. Just a suggestion