Botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX™)

is a naturally occurring protein produced by a bacterium. It is one of the first substances used in biological warfare. It was used on the tips of arrows by many natives of different countries to bring down their prey. It would paralyze the prey because of its ability to inhibit the release of a substance called acetylcholine.

Acetylcholine helps transfer the electrical impulse from the nerves to the

muscles. Without acetylcholine no electrical impulse to a muscle occurs and

then there is no spasticity or motion. The animal drops down.

Today, we have purified the substance and can use botulinum toxin in more

constructive ways in medicine. Botox has been licensed for medical use since

1989. Almost any time that there is a spasm of muscles Botox can be used to

solve that spasm- at least on a temporary basis. In addition, if you have a

problem with facial line or excessive sweating then Botox also can be used

quite successfully.

A partial listing of proven uses with Botulinum toxin include the following:

??blepharospasm or forceful and involuntary closure of the eyelids

**strabismus or squinting/misalignment of the eyes of various types

** hemifacial spasm or sudden contraction of the muscles on one side

of the face

**spasmodic torticollis, wry neck, cervical dystonia- muscle spasm in

the neck that creates either forward, backward, or sidebending of the neck.

**urinary retention or severe inability to urinate that requires

catheterization

**voice tremor or quavering vocalization

**oromandibular dystonias or continuous spasms of the face, jaw,

neck, tongue, and some other parts

**headaches

??other selected problems as medically determined such as softening

of facial wrinkles

It is a safe and effective injection technique. The results usually can be

seen in about fifteen minutes and last for several months, on average. Then,

the procedure may have to be repeated.

Hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating is a rare condition. Those patients who

have this condition frequently have excessive sweating of the hands, feet or

merely in the underarm area. The condition creates much more problems than

mere sweating. A study done in 2001[Nauman et al, 2001] reported greater

than 50% decrease in sweating with Botox usage.

Adverse reactions to Botox are relatively uncommon. They may include

localized pain from the injection, some tenderness and bruising also from

the injection and occasional temporary weakness.

Take advantage of this simple technique, which can give so much relief! It

is not for everyone.