The Shapero Markham Headache and Pain Treatment Centre
Treatment & Relief for your chronic, head, neck and facial pain.
Search

Botox For Headaches

BOTOX® is the trade name for a purified neuromuscular toxin fabricated and marketed by Allergan Inc. This biological substance derived from bacteria, acts at the site of neuromuscular junction in order to diminish muscular spasm. The toxin undergoes a sophisticated laboratory purification process that allows for safe and reliable therapeutic use and results.

Botulinum toxin was discovered in 1949. The research team of Dr Burgen were the first to determine that this molecule was capable of blocking nerve transmission between a nerve and its muscle. In 1973, an ophthalmologist used toxin therapy to treat strabismus. In December 1989, the United States Food and Drug Agency approved BOTOX® (Botulinum toxin type A) for the treatment of strabismus, blepharospasm, and hemi-facial spasm. In 2001 BOTOX® received approval in Canada for its use in “Focal Spasticity”, Hyperhidrosis and Dynamic Wrinkles.  BOTOX® is not yet approved in the Unites States or Canada for treatment of headaches or MPS.

What is the mechanism of action of BOTOX®?

Small doses of BOTOX® (Botulinum toxin type A) are injected into a muscle at the site of pain or pathology (head and neck pain). The toxin temporarily blocks the production of a chemical transmitter called acetylcholine, which is responsible for transmitting electrical impulse between the nerve and the muscle. This blockade permits the relaxation of the muscle injected and diminishes the transmission of pain signals.

Who can benefit from treatment with BOTOX® ?

  • Migraine patients
  • Patients suffering from tension-type headaches
  • Patients suffering from cervico-genic headaches
  • Patients with post traumatic headaches
  • Back and muscle pain caused by spasm
  • Contra-indications
  • Patients who are pregnant or lactating
  • Patients with neurological conditions that cause paralysis or muscle weakness
  • Patients taking aminoglycosides

What are the clinical benefits of treatment with BOTOX ® ?

Patients will notice an improvement in the frequency and severity of headaches and migraine over a 3 to 5 month period, after which time, the treatment can be repeated if needed. It is unknown at this time if the therapeutic benefits are cumulative with time. Onset of action is usually experienced within 2 weeks. Patients may choose to discontinue use of other prophylactic medications.

What are the risks of treatment with BOTOX ®?

There are few side effects associated with this treatment. There is a risk that it will have no effect.  A slight discomfort may be experienced as the syringe is injected into the muscle. Bruising may occur at the sight of injection. The muscles responsible for raising of the eyebrows may be temporarily affected as well as the muscles that elevate and shrug the shoulders. This is not a major concern. Repeated exposure to BOTOX ® (Botulinum toxin type A) injections does not cause long-term problems or accumulation and effects of the medication are reversible.