Botulinum toxin type-A preparations are not the same medications - basic science (Part 1)

Neurol Neurochir Pol. 2021;55(2):133-140. doi: 10.5603/PJNNS.a2021.0027. Epub 2021 Apr 2.

Abstract

Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) formulations are widely used in clinical practice. Although they share a common mechanism of action resulting in presynaptic block in acetylocholine release, their structure and pharmacological properties demonstrate some similarities and many differences. Bioequivalence has been discussed since the onset of the clinical use of BoNT/A. In this review, we provide an update on the studies and compare the molecular structure, mechanisms of action, diffusion and spread, as well as immunogenicity and dose equivalence of onabotulinumtoxinA, abobotulinumtoxinA and incobotulinumtoxinA.

Keywords: abobotulinumtoxinA; botulinum toxin A formulation; incobotulinumtoxinA; onabotulinumtoxinA; pharmacological similarities and differencies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A