Description of Treatment/Procedure

Botulinum toxin is a complex protein that causes paralysis by blocking the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. It functionally denervates the muscle. The blocking action can be used to alleviate muscle spasm or to weaken a muscle for therapeutic purposes.

Committee Summary

The ICSI Technology Assessment Committee finds botulinum toxin to be safe and effective for treatment of strabismus, blepharospasm, and hemifacial spasm when administered in appropriate doses by physicians trained in its administration. The available evidence also supports its effectiveness and safety for the treatment of cervical dystonia, jaw-closing oromandibular dystonia, and adductor spasmodic dysphonia. Some evidence also supports the toxin's safety and effectiveness for the treatment of cerebral palsy. For other conditions, conclusions about long-term safety and effectiveness cannot be reached due to limited availability of evidence.