Botulinum toxin therapy has been used to treat many neurologic disorders, including:
- Blinking or twitching of the muscles on one side of the face
- Dystonias
- Spasticity from strokes, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries
- Pathologically abnormal sweating, and drooling
- Headache and other painful conditions
(The Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Unit does not use botulinum toxin for cosmetic purposes.)
Botulinum toxin is a potent neurotoxin produced by the bacterium, Clostridium botulinum. When purified and delivered exactly where needed, it becomes a powerful therapeutic agent. There are seven known types of C. botulinum toxin, but only types A (Botox®) and B (Myobloc®) are used as medical treatments.
The goal of the therapy is to reduce muscle spasm and pain, and restore more useful function. A very small dose of botulinum toxin is injected into a muscle to block some of the messages that are sent from the nerves to the muscles, reducing spasms.
Neurons generate new nerve endings that reactivate the muscle contracture, so improvement is time limited, and treatment is usually repeated every 3 to 4 months. Physical or occupational therapy occasionally helps restore normal muscle function.
More information on Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
Side Effects of Botulinum Toxin Therapy
Botulinum toxin therapy is a safe and effective treatment when given in appropriate amounts by a qualified neurologist. Some patients experience temporary weakness in the group of muscles being treated, or those nearby. For example, ptosis (drooping eyelid) can develop after treating blepharospasm. Flu-like symptoms develop in some patients, but rarely. Patients with certain other neuromuscular diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or myasthenia gravis, may not be appropriate candidates for botulinum toxin therapy. Infrequently, some patients develop antibodies to the medication over time, rendering the treatment ineffective.
Where We Are Located
Botulinum Toxin Clinic provides service at Westfall Road.
Westfall Road Clinic
919 Westfall Rd
Building C, Suite 220
Rochester, NY 14618
Directions to Westfall Road Clinic
Our Staff
Richard L. Barbano, M.D., Ph.D., Director
To Schedule an Appointment…
To schedule an appointment call 585-341-7500 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The Department of Neurology participates with Blue Choice, Preferred Care, Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rochester health plans. We accept cash or check only for all applicable co-payments and personal balances due at the time of service. If you must cancel your appointment, please do so at least 24 hours in advance. You will be charged a $25.00 fee if you miss an appointment. Please arrive 20 minutes before your appointment.