Movement disorders like cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, and hemifacial spasm can greatly diminish the quality of life for individuals living with these conditions. A recent study using real-world data examines the characteristics, treatment patterns, and adverse events associated with botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections in patients with these conditions, providing insights that may enhance patient care.
Study Overview
Utilizing Optum’s de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart Database, this observational study analyzed patient data from August 2010 to May 2022. Patients with diagnoses of cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, or hemifacial spasm who received BoNT treatment were included. Three distinct cohorts were analyzed to understand demographic patterns, treatment utilization, and the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) following BoNT injections. In all three groups, females and older adults represented the majority of patients, with cervical dystonia patients tending to be younger (predominantly 45 and older), while blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm patients were generally 65 and older.
Across the groups, anticholinergics and peripheral muscle relaxants were commonly used alongside BoNT treatments, with a median frequency of two BoNT injections per year and an interval of 13–15 weeks between injections. Dyspnea, dysphagia, muscular weakness, and constipation were among the most reported AEs. Facial paralysis was prevalent particularly in patients with blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm. The results were consistent across different BoNT formulations, though regional prescribing patterns and demographic differences were noted. The study suggests that further research on BoNT usage, including dosing and treatment efficacy, could help refine and improve management strategies for patients with these movement disorders.