How does Botox work?

Type A “Botox” and B “Myobloc” bind selectively to acceptors on cholinergic nerve terminals and are internalized into the nerve ending; acetylcholine release is inhibited by acting on one or more intracellular proteins.

Botulinum neurotoxins were first used in humans to treat strabismus (FDA approved use).

Other FDA approved uses include:

Ø     Cervical dystonia

Ø     Treatment of glabellar lines

Ø     Blepharospasm

Ø     Cranial nerve VII disorders

Ø     Cosmoses

“Extralabel” uses of Botulinum neurotoxins include:

Ø     Spasmodic Dysphonia

Ø     Task specific dystonia (such as writer’s cramp, etc.)

Ø     Hemifacial spasm

Ø     Spasticity (related to Multiple Sclerosis, spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, etc.)

Ø     Achalasia (esophageal)

Ø     Chronic anal fissures

Ø     Migrane and tension headaches

Ø     Hyperhidrosis

Ø     Cerebral Palsy

Ø     Low back pain

Ø     Myofascial pain syndrome

Ø     Tics

Ø     Spastic bladder and urinary sphincters

Typical onset of effect is 3-10 days; typical duration of effect is 8-12 weeks or longer.

Botulinum neurotoxin often provides effective relief as either the sole agent or, more commonly, as an adjunct to other treatment (such as medications, therapy, etc.).

Botulinum neurotoxins are safe, side effects are uncommon and usually result from diffusion of toxin into muscles or structures adjacent to those injected and may include hematoma, skin rash, pain or swelling at the injection site, or infection. Only non-contraindications are: known hypersensitivity/allergy to component of the medication, generalized movement disorders, and use of aminoglycoside antibiotics, spectinomycin, and known on-going malignancy.

Botulinum neurotoxins are well tolerated and can be administered easily on an outpatient/office basis by Physiatrists (specialists in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) with expertise in administration of Botulinum neurotoxins.

Effects of Botulinum neurotoxins are temporary and more injections are often necessary.

Our Team:

MSU Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic has a dynamic and well-trained staff to meet patients’ needs. The Botulinum Neurotoxin staff is part of an interdisciplinary team of specialists at the clinic, including Physiatrists (physicians board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation), Psychologists, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Lymphedema Specialists, and Speech/Language Pathologists. Our staff is also a part of the MSU Health Team, enabling communication and referral options with a large variety of health care specialists. 

Insurances Accepted:

Ø      Blue Cross/Blue Shield

Ø      Blue Care Network

Ø      PHP

Ø      Medicare

Ø      Auto

Ø      Workers Comp.

Ø      Other Commercial Policies

Insurance policies differ, not all diagnoses and treatments are covered by all policies.