Botulinum toxin type A, or Botox, is a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent that reduces the rigidity of muscles or unwanted spasms in a specific muscle. Botox is produced from the bacteria that causes food poisoning and provides relief for muscle stiffness at the injection site. Over the past ten years, Botox has been used to treat spastic muscles in children with cerebral palsy. The injection stops the signal between the nerve and the muscle, effectively relaxing the muscle and reducing stiffness. Once the muscles are relaxed intensive therapy is required to maximise the benefits of treatment. This is not a cure for spasticity, and to maintain the effect injections need to be repeated every three to six months.

For more information contact a Children's Hospital.