Patients who suffer from diseases that cause muscles to tighten abnormally or cause other movement disorders due to nerve problems may receive onabotulinumtoxinA injections. This medication may also b e used to smooth wrinkles on the face–a cosmetic procedure known as Botox. This medication consists of a poison that blocks nerve signals that cause muscle tightening and inhibits glands from working. It can also be injected into the bladder to stop bladder contractions and interfere with incontinence.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication contains the same toxin that causes botulism–a bacterial infection that can be fatal. It must be injected by a health care practitioner who is familiar with the dangers of this medication and able to take proper precautions. In some cases, the medication might spread out from the injection site, causing symptoms similar to those of botulism. If you have difficulty swallowing or breathing, get emergency medical help Patients who develop the inability to swallow as a result of this medication may need a feeding tube for several months until the poison leaves their system.