Botulinitoksiinia

Botulinitoksiinia, commonly known as botulinum toxin, is a highly potent neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and related species. It exists in several serotypes (A–G), with types A, B, E (and sometimes F) relevant to human medicine. The toxin enters nerve terminals and cleaves SNARE proteins essential for the release of acetylcholine, thereby blocking communication between nerves and muscles and causing a flaccid paralysis.

When purified and used in controlled doses for medical or cosmetic purposes, botulinum toxin induces targeted weakness or relaxation of specific muscles. Medical applications include cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, strabismus, spasticity, chronic migraine, hyperhidrosis, and overactive bladder, among others. Cosmetic uses are popular for reducing facial wrinkles by temporarily reducing underlying muscle activity.

Administration is typically by injection and must be performed by trained healthcare professionals. In many jurisdictions, it is regulated as a prescription medication. Onset of effect usually occurs within several days, with peak results at a couple of weeks, and duration generally ranging from two to six months depending on toxin type, dose, and treatment site.

Risks and adverse effects can include localized pain, swelling, and unintended weakness near the injection site, as well as less common but serious events such as dysphagia, diplopia, or breathing difficulties when the toxin spreads beyond the target area. Immunogenicity and the need for repeat treatments over time are considerations in long-term use.

History notes that botulinum toxin was isolated in the late 19th century, with therapeutic use expanding in the late 20th century and becoming widespread in the clinical and cosmetic fields.