In this Article

• What is Botox?
• What is spasticity?
• How does the botulinum toxin work?
• How are botulinum toxin treatments given?
• What are the advantages of botulinum toxin?
• What are the disadvantages of botulinum toxin?
• What are the side effects?
• What does it mean to "develop antibodies" to botulinum toxin?
• Is this treatment right for me?
• Does insurance cover this therapy?
• When should I call my doctor?
• How will I know if the treatment is working?
• For more information
• Botox to Treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Index

What Are the Side Effects?

Side effects of botulinum toxin include:

• Temporary weakness of the injected muscle and weakness in some nearby muscles
• Brief flu-like symptoms (these may develop one week after the injections and usually only last for about one day)

What Does It Mean to "Develop Antibodies" to Botulinum Toxin?

There is a slight chance that you may develop antibodies to botulinum toxin. Antibodies to botulinum toxin cause the botulinum toxin to be less effective. If this occurs, switching to the other type of toxin (for example, from type A to type B) may be helpful. To minimize the risk of developing antibodies, specific guidelines are followed to restrict the frequency of injections and the dose of medication that is injected.

Is This Treatment Right for Me?

A doctor will perform a complete evaluation to determine if you are eligible to receive botulinum toxin therapy.

Does Insurance Cover This Therapy?

Insurance coverage varies greatly, depending on individual insurance plans. Check with your insurance company before treatment begins. Give them the following CPT (procedure) codes:

1. JO585: Botox
2. J0587: Myobloc
3. 64614: Chemodenervation of extremity(s)

When Should I Call My Doctor?

Call your doctor:

• If you think that the medication is not working (please wait at least 2 weeks after the injection)
• If you are experiencing side effects that you think may be related to botulinum toxin
• When the effects of the medication wears off

How Will I Know if the Treatment Is Working?

You will be examined during frequent follow-up appointments to determine if the treatment is working properly. Typically, you will be re-evaluated every 3 to 6 months, when the effect of the medication wears off, to determine if it is appropriate to repeat the injections.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Multiple Sclerosis - Learn about the types of multiple sclerosis and symtpoms including muscle weakness and spasm, fatigue, memory loss, depression, memory loss, impaired judgement and more.

Read more Botox to Treat Multiple Sclerosis (MS) related articles »

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