A poison produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and used, in small doses, to treat muscular cramps and spasms.
The toxin of the anaerobic bacterium clostridium botulinum is now routinely used to treat focal dystonias in adults. These include blepharospasm, spasmodic tortiollis, muscular spasms of the face, squint and some types of tremor. Injected close to where the nerve enters the affected muscles, the toxin blocks nerve transmissions for up to four months, so relieving symptoms. The toxin can be used in cerebral palsy and for writers’ cramp. It is also widely used in providing temporary improvement of wrinkles between the eyebrows. Although very effective, there are many possible unwanted effects of the toxin, especially if too high a dose is used or the injection is misplaced. Two types are available (A & B) and there are different reasons for using one or other preparation.
Belonging to a category of formidable bacterial toxins or poisons, these substances are generated by various strains of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Their potent nature leads to muscular paralysis.
Botulinum toxin, an extremely potent toxin manufactured by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, can be potentially fatal. However, when administered in minuscule doses, this toxin serves as a medication for muscle relaxation, effectively managing muscle spasms associated with certain disorders. In recent times, it has gained popularity for its cosmetic applications as well. By injecting botulinum toxin into facial muscles, it temporarily reduces the appearance of wrinkles.