Botox Can Be A Vital Neurological Treatment For Chronic And Episodic Migraines

Apart from its wide use in cosmetics, botulinum toxin (BTX), commonly called Botox, is also beneficial to people suffering from chronic medical problems, including central nervous system conditions that have links with involuntary muscle movement, pain and migraines.

Official guidelines for the use of BTX have been drawn out by the American Academy of Neurology. BTX can be used to treat neurological conditions, including stroke, spinal cord or other neurological injuries, including chronic and episodic migraines.

BTX is a neurotoxin that has been produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum bacterium. It tends to temporarily paralyze muscles, blocking contractions of involuntary muscle movement disorders and also nerve endings that trigger signals for pain disorders.

Earlier, the use of BTX use for migraines was thought to be just an experimental treatment. But information from placebo-controlled trials shows how effective it is in managing migraines. Its effect is more than current medications, and it also does not show too many side-effects.

While the therapeutic effects of BTX might last four to six weeks, too much of it can lead to serious side effects and even death.

It can also be used in a number of treatments beyond neurology and cosmetics, such as in urology and gastroenterology. However, not many patients understand its benefits and coverage under their insurance plans, which makes them overlook it as an option for treatment.

"This is not a last resort," said David Simpson, a professor of neurology and director of the clinical neurophysiology laboratories at the Icahn School of Medicine. "In some situations, one might think it should come in very early in the treatment cycle."

The new guidelines  were published in the April 18 issue of the journal Neurology.