Anti-Wrinkle Maker Botox May Soon be Approved as Pharmaceutical Drug for Migraine Relief
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It may not be considered a pharmaceutical drug in the minds of many, but Botox maker Allergan may soon receive FDA approval for use as a preventative treatment to relieve chronic migraines. The company gained approval to use Botox not only for cosmetic purposes, but also as a pharmaceutical drug in the UK last month. However, approval for use in the United States has not yet followed. Facing rising stock prices, Allergan is currently lobbying the European Union to recognize the approval.
How Botox Works
The popular anti-wrinkle formula has showed promising results in banishing migraines. Botox works by relaxing chemical neurotransmitter acetylocholine, preventing it from sending signals for muscles to contract, also preventing migraines. The prescriptions medication is also thought to modify the nervous system so migraines are less prone to develop.
In a recent article published on August 2, 2010, Allergan confirmed that it had provided the FDA with all of the necessary materials, including a proposed plan on training physicians on the correct use of the pharmaceutical drug. Allergan also disclosed that the FDA would delay its judgment further, requesting an updated risk Mitigation Strategy on effective marketing and Risk Evaluation.
Possible Medicinal Use for Botox
According to Allergan's press release, clinical trials involving 1,384 adult migraine sufferers experienced not only significantly less migraines over the course of the trial periods, but also reported an improvement in vitality, psychological distress and overall quality of life.
The FDA's approval or rejection of Botox as a pharmaceutical drug in the U.S. is not expected for several months. Be sure to check our prescription drugs list for the latest developments.
