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'''Botulinum toxin''' is a poisonous [[neurotoxin]] [[protein]] which is produced by the [[bacterium]] ''[[Clostridium botulinum]]''. It is one of the most poisonous naturally-occurring substances, and can be fatal if ingested.  It interferes with [[neuron]] transmission, which can keep [[muscle]]s from contracting.  When used in small amounts it can be medically useful to treat uncontrollable muscle spasms in conditions such as [[torticollis]] and [[spasmodic dysphonia]].  The most publicized use, however, is purely cosmetic: it can be used to smooth out facial wrinkles, and for this use it is often known by the trade name '''Botox'''.

'''Botulinum toxin''' is a [[protein]] which is produced by the [[bacterium]] ''[[Clostridium botulinum]]''.  It interferes with [[neuron]] transmission, which can keep [[muscle]]s from contracting.  As this effect can be very deadly, botulinum toxin is known as a neurotoxin, meaning that it is a toxic agent which affects the nervous system.  When used in small amounts and in highly localized applications, however, it can be extremely medically useful to treat uncontrollable muscle spasms in conditions such as [[torticollis]] and [[spasmodic dysphonia]].  The most publicized use, however, is purely cosmetic: it can be used to smooth out facial wrinkles, and for this use it is often known by the trade name '''Botox'''.

[[Category:Medicine]]

[[Category:Medicine]]

[[Category:Poisons]]

[[Category:Poisons]]