Allergan receives approval for Botox in muscle stiffness treatment

Allergan has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration for its Botox drug to be used as a treatment for muscle stiffness.

The injection administered compound was ratified for use among upper limb spasticity sufferers based on positive findings from a recent clinical trial.

It functions through administration directly to the affected muscles, blocking overactive nerve impulses and thereby reducing the level of tightness experienced in the elbow, wrist and fingers.

Dr Mitchell Brin, Allergan’s senior vice-president of global development and chief scientific officer for Botox, said this represented a positive step in treating a debilitating and underexposed condition.

He added: “The approval of Botox marks another important evolution in medical care, as we look to raise greater recognition and understanding of upper limb spasticity among patients affected by the condition.”

Last week, the company agreed to enter into collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb on the development of a new neuropathic pain treatment.