4 Surprising Uses for Botulinum Toxin A

Author

Dr. Stephen Cosentino

PRESIDENT OF EMPIRE MEDICAL TRAINING Everyone knows botulinum toxin A, better known as Botox, is the go-to solution for wrinkles, but did you know the drug offers a surprising number of benefits that go behind fine lines and permanent brow furrows? In fact, it has several therapeutic uses you may want to take advantage of.

TMJ and Jaw Pain

When injected into any muscle, botulinum toxin A blocks the muscle's nerve receptors and temporarily weakens them. If you suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, having botulinum toxin A injected in the jaw alleviates the chronic pain cycle, giving you much-needed relief. Botulinum toxin A has shown to reduce jaw pain, even in people who haven't responded to other treatments.

Chronic Migraines

In the early '90s, a plastic surgeon discovered his Botox patients reported fewer headaches after their injections. Later testing proved the drug has a positive effect on those with chronic migraines. It's so effective, in fact, that the Food and Drug Administration approved the drug as a treatment for the disorder in 2010. Patients receiving botulinum toxin A for headache relief must have the drug injected in 31 sites throughout the head and neck, but the effects can last up to three months.

Overactive Bladder

Dr. Linda Brubaker, dean and chief diversity officer of the Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, conducted a study using botulinum toxin A to treat overactive bladder. She observed that the drug helped 70 percent of the women she treated. The only catch, however, is that botulinum toxin A can shut down the bladder too much, requiring the patient to use a catheter. Even so, the FDA has approved its use and recommended proper dosages.

Abnormal Heartbeat

While not FDA-approved yet, ongoing studies are showing botulinum toxin A to be an effective therapy in preventing abnormal heartbeat patterns in open-heart surgery patients. Postoperative atrial fibrillation is a common complication that occurs after surgery, and Botox is filling a largely unmet need in these patients. Make a difference in people's lives by studying the benefits of botulinum toxin A under Empire Medical Training. Call us at 866-366-1576 to get started.