Botulinum toxin B reduces the severity, pain and disability of cervical dystonia

Botulinum toxin B is an exotoxin synthesised by Clostridium botulinum which causes muscle weakness. It is approved for the reduction of spasms, pain and disturbed postures and functions in patients with cervical dystonia. Botulinum toxin B effectively reduced severity, pain and disability associated with cervical dystonia in three double-blind, randomised,placebo-controlled trials. Improvements were generally similar in patients who were responsive or resistant to botulinum toxin A. Overall, botulinum toxin B was well tolerated with the most frequently reported adverse events being dry mouth and dysphagia. Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin is generally considered the treatment of choice for patients with cervical dystonia.