SPASTICITY-BOTULINUM TOXIN SIDE EFFECTS

SUMMARY

1. Muscle weakness, flaccidity interfering with function.

2. Hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis. Flu-like syndrome.

3. Skin injection site reaction.

4. Myalgia, visual/hearing disturbance, vasovagal response.

5. If injected into blood vessels: generalised muscle paralysis, cardiovascular (including MI, arrhythmia) compromise, dyspnea, fever, seizure.

6. Effect on nerves: neuropathy, radiculopathy, facial paralysis.

7. Use with pre-existing NMJ diseases (MG, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, ALS) may lead to life-threatening respiratory depression and dysphagia.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.