DrJeremy's Journal

I thought it might be a good idea to clarify the recent concern of botulinum toxin and a possible association to children's deaths and severe side effects.  As some are probably aware, botulinum toxin works by blocking nerve impulses to muscles, which causes them to relax.  A few years back in 2002, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Botox (brand name) for improving the "wrinkle lines" one sees between the eyebrows.  In 2004, the FDA approved its use for primary axillary hyperhidrosis (AKA severe underarm swetaing).

The current concern is related to botulinum toxin's off-label use to control limb spasms caused by cerebral palsy.  Included among the adverse effects are respiratory failure, difficulty swallowing, and weakness with the thought that there is spread of the toxin away from the site of the injection. 

So where are we today?  The FDA is currently investigating the deaths and those with severe adverse reactions as well as reviewing the clinical trials submitted by the makers of these drugs.  And at the present time, the FDA has not advised against its use by health-care personnel in already approved measures.

Stay tuned for more....

And I certainly encourage everyone to visit the Cerebral Palsy community here at DS as there have been numerous posts over the last few months regarding personal experience with botulinum toxin. 

Dr. Jeremy