The American Academy of Neurology has updated its guidelines on the use of botox, which is referred to as a safe and effective treatment for chronic migraines – along with three other neurological disorders. Botulinum toxin is normally used as a cosmetic treatment to smooth out wrinkles, but it can also reduce muscle contractions and the transmission of pain signals by blocking the release of neurotransmitters from nerve endings.
The researchers reviewed scientific studies on the four preparations of botulinum toxin and found this type of treatment is generally safe and effective in treating chronic migraines, spasticity, cervical dystonia, and blepharospasms.
Treatment guidelines for these conditions were last updated in 2008, but at the time there was not enough evidence to recommend botox as a mode of treatment for chronic migraine. This time around, the authors had more evidence to support their decision to include chronic migraine on the list of conditions that may be treated using botox, as slight benefits from botox therapy were detected in chronic migraine sufferers.
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The new guidelines will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting held in Vancouver, Canada.
Sources:
http://www.neurology.org/content/early/2016/04/15/WNL.0000000000002560
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
