FDA approves botox for spasticity

Botox can now be used as a treatment for people suffering from spasticity following US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.

Individuals who have tremors in their elbow, wrist and fingers could benefit from the decision, with the condition prevalent in those who have multiple sclerosis, brain injuries or have had a stroke.

Temporarily blocking signals between the nerves and muscles, botox is able to paralyse spastic limbs for a short-term period.

Director of the neurology products division of the FDA's centre for drug evaluation and research Russell Katz said it could help patients to cope with the condition more easily.

"Muscles affected by spasticity have increased stiffness and tightness, which may lead to pain, difficulties with hygiene and other activities of daily living and may affect how a patient looks," he remarked.

According to the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation, more than two million people have the disease worldwide, with weak and unsteady limbs a common symptom.