Botulinum toxin is a protein product of the gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, Clostridium botulinum, and also contains the same toxin found in food poisoning. After purification, botulinum toxin became the first bacterial toxin to be used in medical treatments. (5 Gospelova) After being injected into the body, the toxin attaches to nerve endings where the nerves join the muscles. The chemical acetylcholine is released which then signals the muscles to contract causing weakness and paralysis. Extra contractions are blocked by injections into the muscle but leave enough strength for normal use. (Vangelova) This botulism toxin is classified into 7 serotypes (A to G). Type A of botulism toxin is more commonly known as Botox. Botox toxin is recognized as the most potent and has been studied the most for clinical use. Although botulinum toxin is a lethal toxin, it can be used as an effective and potent drug by injecting minute amounts of the toxin into overactive muscles. (Shipla) In 2002, Botox Type A was approved and has since become a popular cosmetic treatment that helps minimize the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles, as well as smoothes skin for a more youthful appearance. (Botox: Beyond Cosmetic Fixes) The use of this botulinum toxin type A is rapidly expanding to include a variety of treatments including ophthalmologic disorders, gastrointestinal, urologic, orthopedic, dermatologic, secretory, pain, and cosmetic disorders. (Jankovic) Botulinum toxin first gained clinical acceptance due to the dramatic benefits it produced in patients with dystonia. This neurological disease involves chronic abnormal posture and muscle tension. (5 Gospelova) Dystonias are classes...... middle of paper ......eda, Juan, and Joseph Jankovic. “Long-term efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin injections in dystonia.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. US National Library of Medicine, 4 February 2013. Web. 13 April 2014. .9. Karp, Barbara Illowsky. “Botulinum toxin physiology in focal hand and cranial dystonia.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. US National Library of Medicine, November 20, 2012. Web. April 13, 2014. .10. Lakraj, Amanda-Amrita D., Narges Moghimi, and Bahman Jabbari. "Hyperhidrosis: anatomy, pathophysiology and treatment with emphasis on the role of botulinum toxins". National Center for Biotechnology Information. US National Library of Medicine, 23 April 2013. Web. 13 April. 2014.