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Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox)
Botulinum toxin type A blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction by cleaving SNARE proteins, causing temporary muscle paralysis.
Botulinum toxin type A blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction by cleaving SNARE proteins, causing temporary muscle paralysis. Used for Cervical dystonia, Blepharospasm, Strabismus.
At a glance
| Generic name | Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), Labs (CBC, BMP, PFT'S, (FEV1 & FVC)), Iodine Starch Skin Test, BTX-A, Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A |
| Sponsor | University of Utah |
| Drug class | Neurotoxin; neuromuscular blocking agent |
| Target | SNAP-25 (synaptosome-associated protein of 25 kDa) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology; Dermatology; Aesthetics |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
The toxin enters motor neurons and cleaves SNAP-25, a protein essential for acetylcholine vesicle fusion and release. This prevents neurotransmitter signaling to muscle fibers, resulting in localized muscle relaxation that typically lasts 3-4 months. The effect is reversible as the body gradually regenerates the cleaved protein and forms new neuromuscular connections.
Approved indications
- Cervical dystonia
- Blepharospasm
- Strabismus
- Chronic migraine
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
- Spasticity
- Cosmetic wrinkle reduction (glabellar lines, forehead, crow's feet)
Common side effects
- Headache
- Neck pain
- Injection site pain or bruising
- Muscle weakness (localized)
- Ptosis (eyelid drooping)
- Dry mouth
- Flu-like symptoms
Key clinical trials
- DaxibotulinumtoxinA Injection for Treatment of Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Serratus Plane Block (SPB) Versus Capsaïcine Versus Botox-A for Chronic Neuropathic Pain in Post-mastectomy Syndrome (PHASE2)
- A Study to Evaluate Patient Satisfaction With the Overall Face and Neck Appearance After Combined Treatment of OnabotulinumtoxinA, JUVÉDERM® Products, KYBELLA, CoolSculpting Elite and SkinMedica Products (PHASE4)
- DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Blepharospasm (PHASE2)
- Prospective, Non-interventional Study Assessing Periorbital Rejuvenation Procedure
- A Clinical Trial to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of Xeomin® Injections for Preventing Episodic Migraine (PHASE3)
- A Clinical Trial to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of Xeomin® Injections for Preventing Chronic Migraine (PHASE3)
- Study to Compare the Efficacy and Safety of NT 201 (Botulinum Toxin) With Placebo for the Treatment of Lower Limb Spasticity Caused by Stroke or Traumatic Brain Injury (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |