Botulinum toxin type A for migraine

About botulinum toxin type A

Botulinum toxin type A is a protein substance which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is a neurotoxin which means that it interferes with the way nerves work. To be eligible for this treatment you must have headaches for 15 or more days each month, with migraine headaches being on at least eight of these days. You must also have tried several other medicines to prevent migraine before this treatment is prescribed for you.

Botulinum toxin type A is thought to work in chronic migraine by relaxing muscles and by blocking the pain signals which are involved in the development of a migraine. These actions may have the effect of stopping a migraine headache from being triggered.

Botulinum toxin injections are also used for other reasons (including cosmetic purposes, muscle spasms, bladder problems, and excessive sweating). This leaflet does not cover the use of botulinum toxin type A in these ways.

Before being treated with botulinum toxin type A

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before being treated with botulinum toxin type A for migraine, make sure that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.

• If you have an infection or any swelling near any of the areas that will be injected.

• If you have any muscle problems, particularly any muscle weakness.

• If you have ever had any difficulty in swallowing or with your breathing.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How you will be given botulinum toxin type A

• Before you start the treatment, ask to read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about Botox® and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from having it.

• You will be given botulinum toxin type A by a doctor who is trained in the use of this treatment. It will be injected into the muscles around your head and neck in several different places.

• If the treatment proves successful for you, your doctor is likely to recommend that it is repeated every 12 weeks.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you have received botulinum toxin type A.

Can botulinum toxin type A cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with botulinum toxin type A. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects may occur following a treatment session even if you have been free from side-effects on previous treatments. You should speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the treatment, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Important information about all medicines