Botulinum toxin: biochemical aspects, applications and adverse effects

ABSTRACT

Botulinum toxin is one of the most potent bacterial toxins known and its effectiveness in the treatment of some pain syndromes is well documented. However, the efficacy of some of its indications is still in the process of being confirmed. Botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin with high affinity for cholinergic synapses, blocks the release of acetylcholine by nerve endings without interfering with neuronal conduction of electrical signals or synthesis and storage of acetylcholine. It has been proven that botulinum toxin can selectively weaken painful muscles, interrupting the spasm-pain cycle. In cosmetics, a small dose of botulinum toxin can be used to prevent formation of wrinkles by paralyzing facial muscles. Botulinum toxin has been categorized into seven types, of which type-A preparations are currently the most widely used. In addition to the clinical and cosmetic uses of botulinum toxin, a number of adverse reactions have also been reported; therefore, it should be used with caution