What is the use of Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B)?

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From the Guidelines

Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) is used to treat various conditions, including blepharospasm, cervical dystonia, and axillary hyperhidrosis, as well as certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as anal fissure and dyssynergic defecation.

Uses of Myobloc

  • Blepharospasm: Myobloc is used to treat blepharospasm, a condition characterized by involuntary spasms of the eyelid muscles.
  • Cervical dystonia: Myobloc is used to treat cervical dystonia, a condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions in the neck.
  • Axillary hyperhidrosis: Myobloc is used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating in the underarms.
  • Gastrointestinal disorders: Myobloc is used to treat certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as anal fissure and dyssynergic defecation, as mentioned in the study by Rao et al. 1.
  • Strabismus: Myobloc (botulinum toxin) can be used to treat strabismus, specifically to reduce diplopia and torticollis, as mentioned in the study on adult strabismus preferred practice pattern 1.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage and administration of Myobloc vary depending on the condition being treated. For example, the study by Rao et al. 1 mentions that the dosage of botulinum toxin for treating dyssynergic defecation is not well established, and further studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage.

Efficacy and Safety

The efficacy and safety of Myobloc have been established in various studies. For example, the study by Rao et al. 1 mentions that botulinum toxin is effective in treating dyssynergic defecation, with a response rate of 70-80%. However, the study also mentions that the likelihood and magnitude of response to botulinum toxin may vary based on treatment length, diagnosis or symptoms, disease severity, or comorbid illnesses.

Comparison with Other Treatments

Myobloc has been compared with other treatments for various conditions. For example, the study on adult strabismus preferred practice pattern 1 mentions that chemodenervation (botulinum toxin) of the medial rectus muscle may be used to reduce secondary contracture and the severity of compensatory head position, in addition to other treatments such as occlusion and prisms.

From the Research

Uses of Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B)

  • Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) is FDA-approved for the treatment of cervical dystonia 2, 3, 4
  • It has been used off-label for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis, with studies showing its safety and efficacy for this indication 2, 3
  • Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) has also been used for the management of hyperhidrosis, a disease in search of a long-needed treatment 3
  • It has been used in facial aesthetics, with a different mechanism of action compared to type A toxins (Botox and Dysport) 5, 6
  • The duration of action of Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis ranged from 2.2 to 8.1 months (mean 5.0 months) 2

Adverse Events

  • The adverse event profile of Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) includes bruising, flu-like symptoms, and dry eyes 2
  • The side effect profile of Myobloc (Botulinum toxin type B) may be different from that of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) 3

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Myobloc.

Dermatologic clinics, 2004

Research

Botulinum toxin type B (Myobloc).

Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 2003

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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