How is botulinum toxin (Botox®) used in treating headaches?
Botulinum toxin type A, or Botox®, has recently received a great deal of media coverage as a potential treatment for migraine and other headaches. Botox® is a purified neurotoxin from the bacteria that causes botulism, a medical condition characterized by progressive muscle weakness and paralysis after food poisoning or a deep wound infection. Small amounts of botulinum toxin injected directly into muscle can cause localized muscle weakness. This substance has already been widely used to treat diseases that cause uncontrollable muscle spasm or cramping. Its action in controlling migraine headache is being tested at this time. Even though early results of clinical tests are encouraging, continued research, such as that being conducted at MHNI, is necessary before any firm conclusions can be drawn concerning the effectiveness of Botox® as a primary treatment for migraine and other headaches. Currently it is difficult to predict whose headaches may respond to Botox®. However, patients who
