Botulinum toxin for ocular muscle disorders
Article Abstract:
A drug that has been used extensively in research studies for treating ocular (eye) muscle disorders has recently been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in patients over age 12 years. The medication is sold by Allergan under the brand name Oculinum, and consists of Botulinum toxin type A. This toxin is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum; it has the effect of temporarily blocking the nerve activity of a muscle, thereby weakening or paralyzing the muscle. Botulinum toxin has been shown to be effective in treating blepharospasm, a condition in which there are involuntary, spasmodic movements of the facial muscles around the eyes. If severe, the patient may be unable to see. When the drug was injected into the muscle, 90 percent of patients had their symptoms relieved for two to four months at a time. Botulinum toxin has also been effective in cases of hemifacial spasm, spasmodic torticollis, spasmodic dysphonia, and cranial-cervical dystonias. Strabismus, an eye condition commonly referred to as cross-eyes, has also been successfully treated with injections of botulinum toxin. The drug effect usually lasts for one to two months, but in some cases the eye muscles may realign in such a way that the beneficial effect is permanent. Testing has not revealed any serious side effects involving the entire body system, but a few rare cases of eye injury and one case of glaucoma have occurred. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1990
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Cosmetic use of botulinum toxin
Article Abstract:
Injecting botulinum toxin into the face and neck may improve the appearance of wrinkles, facial lines and a sagging neck. This toxin blocks nerve activity in muscles, causing paralysis. Injecting the toxin into muscle causes the muscle to lengthen, which flattens skin and reduces wrinkles. The greatest effect occurs within 7 to 14 days and can last for 3 to 6 months. Eventually the muscle recovers and the wrinkles return.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1999
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Botulinum toxin for cervical dystonia
Article Abstract:
The FDA has approved the use of botulinum toxin types A and B for the treatment of torticollis, a spasm of the neck muscles. Toxin A is sold under the trade name Botox and B under the trade name Myobloc. They both weaken or paralyze muscles but are expensive and must be injected about every three months.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2001
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