“Best results are expected with skilled procedure, proper muscle selection and appropriate dosage of botulinum toxin”, says Dr K M Hassan, Recipient of Times Healthcare Achiever’s Award 2018 for Delhi NCR in Legend Category for Neurology 

What is botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin (BTX) is a neurotoxic protein produced by bacterium Clostridium botulinum. BTX types A and B are used in neurological practice to treat muscle spasms/stiffness and diseases characterised by overactive muscles. Botox and Dysport are the most commonly used commercial forms. 

How does botulinum toxin help?

BTX relieves muscle spasm and stiffness, and also helps reduce pain thereby improving quality of life. Treatment with botulinum toxin is a key component of neurorehabilitation for post-stroke spasticity and cerebral palsy. 

What are the neurological conditions in which botulinum toxin is beneficial?

BTX is used to treat a number of neurological disorders:

• Post-stroke spasticity, spasticity of multiple sclerosis, post-head injury & post-spinal cord injury
• Cerebral palsy
• Chronic migraine
• Dystonias –
  (a) blepharospasm – abnormal contraction of eyelids
  (b) hemifacial spasm – involuntary contraction of one side of face
  (c) cervical dystonia – involuntary contraction of neck muscles causing   awkward postures
  (d) oromandibular dystonia – forceful contraction of face, jaw, tongue
  (e) writer’s cramp – cramps / spasms of muscles of hand and / or forearm during writing
  (f) spasmodic dysphonia – strained voice
• Chronic muscle pain

How does botulinum toxin work?

BTX prevents release of neurotransmitter acetylcholine from nerve endings at neuromuscular junction which stops nerves from signalling leading to decreased muscle tone.

How is botulinum toxin administered?

Botulinum toxin is injected by Neurologists with special interest and expertise in management of dystonias and spasticity. BTX is injected at multiple sites into overactive muscles or underneath skin depending on the neurological condition. Results are best in skilled hands with proper muscle selection and appropriate dosage of BTX. 

Who can administer injection botulinum toxin?

Injection botulinum toxin can be injected, into affected and appropriately selected muscles or underneath skin, by a Movement Disorder Specialist or a Neurologist trained to administer injection botulinum toxin in approved neurological disorders.

How long does the effect of botulinum toxin last?

Induced weakness of overactive muscles is temporary and repeat injections of BTX are required after 3 to 6 months depending on the clinical condition.

Is botulinum toxin safe in clinical practice?

BTX is generally considered safe in clinical setting. Rarely, BTX can spread to distant areas and reduce tone of unintended muscles.

Botulinum toxin therapy at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida

The author has vast experience and expertise in use of BTX bringing succour to hapless patients of dystonias, post-stroke spasticity and cerebral palsy.

Discalimer: The information provided is a general medical advisory and does not necessarily apply to everyone. This information is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult a Neurologist if you have a neurological problem. If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency number immediately.